Scoping Review on Menstrual Suppression Among U.S. Military Service Members

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this scoping review was to systematically evaluate literature addressing menstrual suppression in the military population and to identify gaps in the literature.

Materials and methods: A scoping review of the literature using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines was completed. Quality appraisal was conducted using the Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) Evidence Level and Quality Guide.

Results: Thirteen research articles and nine non-research articles were included. The themes identified were methods for menstrual suppression, barriers to menstrual suppression, and educational recommendations.

Conclusions: Six gaps were identified: (1) readiness, (2) single branch of service, (3) options for suppression, (4) hesitance to suppress, (5) provider practices, and (6) stagnant research. Recommendations for future research, practice, and military health policy are provided. Expanding research on menstrual suppression in U.S. military service members will enhance the health of military service members, provider practices, and military health policy to promote military readiness.