Menstrual suppression for adolescents
Altshuler, A.L.; Hillard, P.J.A.
Current Opinion in Obstetrics and Gynecology 26(5): 323-331
2014
ISSN/ISBN: 1473-656X PMID: 25110977 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000098Document Number: 635859
The purpose of this review is to highlight the recent literature and emerging data describing clinical situations in which menstrual suppression may improve symptoms and quality of life for adolescents. A variety of conditions occurring frequently in adolescents and young adults, including heavy menstrual bleeding, and dysmenorrhea as well as gynecologic conditions such as endometriosis and pelvic pain, can safely be improved or alleviated with appropriate menstrual management. Recent publications have highlighted the efficacy and benefit of extended cycle or continuous combined oral contraceptives, the levonorgestrel intrauterine device, and progestin therapies for a variety of medical conditions. This review places menstrual suppression in an historical context, summarizes methods of hormonal therapy that can suppress menses, and reviews clinical conditions for which menstrual suppression may be helpful.