Member-only story
Can I stop my daughter’s menstrual period?
Options for Achieving Menstrual Suppression
For any woman, the menstrual period is natural and expected but also a hassle. The onset of menses causes discomfort ranging from bloating, pain, heavy and prolonged flow, mood changes, fatigue, and other symptoms. For some women, the menstrual period impacts their quality of life, resulting in absenteeism from work or school or participation in social or recreational activities. The menstrual period can also be unpredictable. Flow can vary, appear early, and last longer; it is extra uncomfortable in hot weather
Another issue is that period products are expensive, and some women find themselves experiencing “period poverty” and may attempt to wear products longer than recommended, increasing their risk for toxic shock syndrome and urinary tract infection. With all of these complications, it is no wonder that 59% of all American women surveyed in 2004 reported wanting to eliminate their monthly menses.
Challenges Faced by the I/DD Community
When you have a child with I/DD (intellectual and/or developmental disability), it may be worth considering the options of Menstrual Suppression. This is achieved by using birth control to reach amenorrhea (complete stop/cessations of menses) or to delay and…
