Menstrual Suppression in Adolescents

Abstract

Importance: Menstrual concerns are the most common reason adolescents seek gynecologic care. Providers should be familiar with the differences among available therapies for menstrual suppression and be able to provide tailored treatment recommendations for adolescents with various medical conditions.

Objective: The aim of this article is to review available medical therapies that can be used for menstrual suppression in adolescents, evaluate their pros and cons, and help the reader apply this knowledge to specific clinical situations.

Evidence acquisition: A literature review was performed with PubMed using key words including menstrual suppression and adolescents.

Results: Multiple treatment options are effective for menstrual suppression. Each option has pros and cons for use in the adolescent patient population.

Conclusions and relevance: Menstrual suppression can be achieved with multiple medical options. Selecting between the agents should be based on clinical indication, medical eligibility, need for contraception, or the patient's individual preferences. Providers who care for adolescents should be able to counsel patients and/or their caregivers regarding the various options for menstrual suppression.