Menstrual Suppression Using Oral Contraceptives: Survey of Deployed Female Aviation Personnel

Abstract

The use of continuous OCPs is low in deployed women with aviation-related duties, yet a majority desires menstrual suppression. Continuous OCP use in this setting is associated with significantly improved compliance and significant reductions in specific menstrual burdens. Entry-level education is desirable and may reduce barriers to continuous OCP use by addressing risks, side effects, and daily pill adherence strategies. Flight surgeons should provide further education and consider continuous OCP dosing in the austere environment of combat flight.

Opinion and experience of Brazilian women regarding menstrual bleeding and use of combined oral contraceptives

“…However, 57% of the health professionals interviewed in a US-based study reported that their patients do not ask about the continuous use of COCs [18]. A survey of female US Army aviation personnel reported that 66% of the women desired the suppression of menstruation for deployment; however, only 16% used COCs continuously [19]. Among those women who did not use COCs continuously, 35% had insufficient knowledge about menstrual suppression [19].…”

“…A survey of female US Army aviation personnel reported that 66% of the women desired the suppression of menstruation for deployment; however, only 16% used COCs continuously [19]. Among those women who did not use COCs continuously, 35% had insufficient knowledge about menstrual suppression [19]. Another survey of female military personnel [20] showed that 66% desired menstrual suppression, although only 21% used COCs continuously [21].…”

“…Another group of women who might benefit from the use of continuous COCs to regulate menstruation include high-performance athletes during training and competitions or (as discussed earlier) women serving in the armed forces who are performing military duties during deployment and combat [19][20][21]24].…”

Medically induced amenorrhea in female astronauts

“…Recent military studies have shown continuous COC usage is only 15% in aviation personnel, despite operationally relevant benefits associated with its use. 13 Military women desired to use menstrual suppression as an alternative to experiencing menstruation during deployment. 14 Many women desired suppression for deployment (66%) but only 21% continuously used COCs.…”

Menstrual Adjustment Administering Hormonal Agents: A Survey of Iranian Pilgrim Women During Long-Term Travel

“…Therefore, suppression of menses is desirable/ favorable. Thus far, the impact of menstrual suppression has been studied in several countries for various reasons (5,6). …”