Issues for Military Women in Deployment: An Overview

Abstract

The stresses of deployment affect both sexes, but some are either mildly or markedly different for women. These include certain female health and gynecological issues, nursing, and pregnancy. Separation from small children, isolation, the possibility of sexual assault, and risks of combat or being taken hostage are concerns for both genders. All of these issues should be addressed before and during deployment to ensure optimal individual and unit functioning and improve retention. Gynecological infections, redeployment for abnormal Papanicolaou smears, and pregnancy while on deployment can be avoided with proper hygiene and planning. There are resources available in pamphlet form, electronically, and on CD-ROM to help prepare service members, leaders, and health care personnel. Improvements in the ability to maintain personal hygiene and to communicate home should benefit both sexes.

Oral Contraceptive Use Among Women in the Military and the General U.S. Population

“…Active duty women work in a predominantly male environment and often want to minimize physical differences. 26 Female military personnel need to be combat ready, and pregnancy and menstrual symptoms (e.g., abdominal pain, water retention) could interfere with daily duties. Once deployed, servicewomen often face unhygienic environments and have difficulties obtaining and disposing of menstrual supplies.…”

Military Women's Urinary Patterns Practices, and Complications in Deployment Settings

“…When field toilet facilities are available in the deployment environment, they can be a "welcomed sight," but unfortunately, many have been reported as unsanitary (Lowe & Ryan-Wenger, 2003;Ritchie, 2001;Trego, 2009Trego, , 2012Wilson & Nelson, 2012). Even in field or portable toilets, military women are required to undress and maneuver into some form of squatting position over the toilet while avoiding contact with the seat.…”

Challenges of Contraceptive Use and Pregnancy Prevention Among Women in the U.S. Navy

“…Birth control adherence is more challenging for women in the Navy, particularly during deployment. During those extended periods at sea, sailors typically work more than 12 hours per day across multiple time zones, which makes timing their medication difficult (Christopher & Miller, 2007;Ritchie, 2001). One sailor described her difficulty in keeping up with her contraceptive regimen and the negative effects of taking them at different times of day:…”