The cost of the menstrual cycle in young Swedish women

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cost of the menstrual cycle for young Swedish women aged 14-20 years. The young women were randomly selected and interviewed by a trained female psychologist; a total of 68 young women completed the interviews. Twenty of the girls used oral contraceptives, while 48 had natural periods. The oral contraceptive users had a lighter menstrual flow and shorter periods (1 day less) than the girls with natural menstruation. The oral contraceptive users experienced less menstrual pain, used fewer painkillers and did not stay at home during their periods as often as the girls with natural periods. The cost of sanitary protection products was about US$1 per month less for the oral contraceptive users. Girls taking oral contraceptives also avoided stained underwear and soiled bedlinen significantly more often than the non-oral contraceptive users. The study design did not allow for cost estimates on soiled underwear, bedlinen or lost work- or schooldays. The results of the study indicate that expenditures related to the menstrual cycle are considerable for young Swedish women.