title: Monthly Periods--Are They Necessary?
abstract: Menstrual suppression--the use of hormones to delay or eliminate menses--is often used in adolescents to manage conditions associated with the menstrual cycle and to accommodate lifestyle preferences. Reducing the frequency of menstrual bleeding does not cause any known physiologic harm and has potential short-term and long-term advantages. Different methods used for menstrual suppression, however, have associated risks and side effects that need to be weighed against the benefits of controlling menses. This article reviews the advantages and disadvantages of menstrual suppression and the different methods available for adolescents.
authors.forename: Sarah E
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Strandjord
authors.forename: Ellen S
authors.initials: ES
authors.lastname: Rome
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D003274:Contraceptive Devices, Female; D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016912:Levonorgestrel / Q000627:therapeutic use; D017258:Medroxyprogesterone Acetate / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008598:Menstruation / Q000187:drug effects*; D008599:Menstruation Disturbances / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010507:Periodicity; D011372:Progestins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D057968:Transdermal Patch
chemical_list: D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal; D011372:Progestins; D016912:Levonorgestrel; D017258:Medroxyprogesterone Acetate