Can I delay suppress, or skip my period?
Dr. Muthoni Mwangi
Maybe you are planning an event, say a wedding or holiday, and want to delay or skip your period so that it does not interfere with your event. Yes, it is possible to delay, suppress, or skip a period using medical interventions.
Some methods for delaying/skipping/suppressing periods are voluntary, while in some cases, it is a result of another medical intervention.
First, it is not possible to permanently stop your period once it starts unless you have your ovaries removed. It is only possible to stop or suppress them temporarily. Below are some interventions that can lead to this:
1) Certain contraceptives
Certain hormonal contraceptives can indeed suppress or reduce the frequency and volume of monthly periods. These options are often chosen by women with specific medical needs, such as those suffering from low blood levels or painful periods, often due to conditions like endometriosis.
Additionally, contraceptive-induced menstrual suppression can benefit bedridden women for whom hygiene is challenging and those who simply prefer the convenience of not having periods.
a) The Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs)
The available options include tablets, vaginal rings, or skin patches. These can be used continuously to suppress menstruation. Typically, they are used for 3, 4, or 6 months at a time before taking a break to allow a withdrawal bleed, then restarted for another cycle. However, COCs are not suitable for women at risk of blood clots, liver disease, certain heart conditions, or active breast cancer.
b) Progestin-Only Contraceptives
The options include:
- Three-monthly injections
- Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Progestin-only pills
- Implants
While these can initially cause irregular bleeding, many women experience satisfactory menstrual suppression after one year. The three-monthly injection, in particular, may delay fertility temporarily after discontinuation, but most women conceive within 10 months of stopping it.
2. Other Possible Causes
As mentioned earlier, some methods are not voluntary and the effects on your periods may be a side effect.
a) Certain Medications
Medications that mimic menopause can also suppress periods but come with significant side effects. These are typically reserved for women with medical conditions like endometriosis, those undergoing chemotherapy, or those preparing for bone marrow transplants. They are not generally recommended for women without such medical indications.
b) Certain Surgeries
For severe cases, surgical options such as hysterectomy or endometrial ablation (destruction of the uterine lining) can permanently stop periods. These methods are typically reserved for women with severe pain or abnormal bleeding due to conditions like fibroids or adenomyosis and result in irreversible infertility.
Is menstrual suppression right for you?
All methods of menstrual suppression come with potential side effects and should be carefully considered. It’s crucial to discuss your options with an obstetrician or gynecologist to determine the best method based on your health, medical history, and personal preferences. Always inquire about potential side effects to make an informed decision.
Is menstrual suppression for everyone?
Menstrual suppression is not suitable for everyone. Women with certain health conditions, such as a history of blood clots, liver disease, heart conditions, or certain cancers, should avoid specific hormonal contraceptives.
It’s important to have a thorough medical evaluation and discussion with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate and safe option.
Finally, talk to your doctor as early as possible. The success rate of these methods depends on when you try in your cycle and what method you use.