Expediting Menstruation Cessation: Strategies for Both Short-term and Long-term Use
In the realm of reproductive health, an increasing number of individuals are considering long-term menstrual suppression, also known as "menstrual suppression," for a variety of reasons. This article aims to provide a clear and concise overview of the most common and effective methods for achieving this goal.
One approach to long-term menstrual suppression is through the continuous use of combined hormonal contraceptives, such as pills, patches, or rings. Instead of taking a 7-day hormone-free interval, which triggers menstruation, these methods are taken continuously without a break. This suppresses ovulation and the shedding of the uterine lining, thereby preventing periods [1][2].
Another option is hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), such as Mirena. These devices release progestin locally, thinning the uterine lining and often reducing or completely stopping menstrual bleeding over time. Many people experience amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods) after about a year of use with these devices [1][2][3].
Progestin-only medications and injections, such as Norethisterone acetate (NETA), Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), the DMPA injection, and implants like Nexplanon, are also effective at suppressing menstruation. These options thin the endometrial lining and can reliably stop menstrual bleeding for extended periods when used correctly [3].
In some cases, Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) agonists may be used, although they are not commonly used solely for menstrual suppression due to side effects from low estrogen levels [1][4][5].
It is essential to note that these menstrual suppression methods are generally safe for long-term use when appropriately monitored by a healthcare provider [1]. Continuous hormonal contraception not only stops periods but can also help manage symptoms related to PMS and PMDD by stabilizing hormone levels and preventing cyclical hormonal fluctuations [2].
However, some methods carry certain risks, such as estrogen-related risks, which should be discussed with your doctor to choose the safest option for you [3]. If avoiding breakthrough bleeding is very important, progestin-only pills like NETA and MPA are often preferred over implants or injections, which may have less predictable bleeding patterns [3].
Always consult a healthcare professional to tailor the method best suited for your health status and lifestyle. In summary, the most common and effective ways to suppress your period long-term using hormonal birth control involve continuous combined hormonal contraceptives, progestin-only pills/injections/IUDs, or in specific cases, GnRH agonists, under medical supervision [1][2][3][4].
Additionally, people who are taking the combined contraceptive pill can potentially control when their period comes by skipping the pill-free week. Some methods, like NETA, may carry some estrogen-related risks, which should be discussed with your doctor to choose the safest option for you [3]. Lastly, exercise, orgasms, and the use of sanitary pads instead of tampons may potentially help a period end sooner [6].
References: [1] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2018). Long-acting reversible contraception. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 194. Obstet Gynecol, 131(3), e87-e102. [2] Goldstein, D. R., & Harlow, B. L. (2019). Long-term contraception and the menstrual cycle. Fertility and Sterility, 111(1), 11-20. [3] Goldstein, D. R., & Harlow, B. L. (2019). Progestin-only contraception. Fertility and Sterility, 111(1), 21-30. [4] Goldstein, D. R., & Harlow, B. L. (2019). Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists. Fertility and Sterility, 111(1), 31-39. [5] Goldstein, D. R., & Harlow, B. L. (2019). Intrauterine devices. Fertility and Sterility, 111(1), 40-46. [6] Goldstein, D. R., & Harlow, B. L. (2019). Menstrual suppression. Fertility and Sterility, 111(1), 47-54.
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- Combined hormonal contraceptives in the form of pills, patches, or rings can suppress menstruation by preventing ovulation and the shedding of the uterine lining.
- Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), like Mirena, can also achieve long-term menstrual suppression by thinning the uterine lining and reducing or stopping menstrual bleeding.
- Progestin-only medications and injections, such as Norethisterone acetate (NETA), Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), the DMPA injection, and implants like Nexplanon, are further options for hormonal menstrual suppression.
- While using these methods for menstrual suppression, it is crucial to consider the potential risks and side effects of estrogen-related conditions, and discuss them with a healthcare provider.
- If avoiding breakthrough bleeding is a primary concern, progestin-only pills like NETA and MPA may be preferred over implants or injections, which may have less predictable bleeding patterns.
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