Eleanor Bimla Schwarz, MD, MS reviewing Jain V and Wotring VE. npj Microgravity 2016 Apr 21.

Medically induced amenorrhea is an important component of mission readiness — as well as life down on Earth.

Female astronauts are exposed to harsh conditions that make menstruation undesirable; in addition, pregnancy is contraindicated for many preflight training activities and for spaceflight itself. These authors conducted a systematic review to provide up-to-date, evidence-based information about options for menstrual suppression and contraception in female astronauts.

Based on results of terrestrial studies, the levonorgestrel intrauterine system and subdermal contraceptive implant were identified as highly effective choices that have the added advantage of minimizing “upmass” (feminine hygiene products and packaging that become trash).

Citation(s):

Jain V and Wotring VE.Medically induced amenorrhea in female astronauts. npj Microgravity 2016 Apr 21; [e-pub].

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