Hormonal Contraceptives, Intrauterine Devices, Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone Analogues and Testosterone: Menstrual Suppression in Special Adolescent Populations

Abstract

Menstrual suppression (the use of hormonal contraceptive methods to eliminate or significantly decrease the frequency of menstrual cycles) is frequently used in the adolescent population for the management of menstrual symptoms such as heavy or painful periods, premenstrual syndrome, menstrual migraines, or even for patient preference. However, in cases of menstrual suppression in special populations additional risks and benefits need to be considered. The purpose of this article is to review the options and medical considerations for menstrual suppression in patients undergoing chemotherapy who might be at risk of abnormal uterine bleeding, those with intellectual or physical disability, and transgender and gender nonbinary individuals.

Keywords: Developmental and physical disability; Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues; Heavy menses; Intrauterine devices; Menstrual suppression; Testosterone; Transgender.