Hormonal contraceptive practices in young Australian women (≤ 25 years) and their possible impact on menstrual frequency and iron requirements

Objectives: To investigate the hormonal contraceptive practices of female university students aged ≤ 25 years, their menstrual bleeding frequency, and interest in contraceptive regimens that reduce menstrual frequency or duration.

Study design: A 20-item questionnaire was distributed to female students at Griffith University, Gold Coast campus. This included questions relating to: demographics, menstrual bleeding frequency, current contraceptive practices, and interest in future oral contraceptive regimens that reduce menstrual bleeding frequency and duration.

Main outcome measures: Determination of hormonal contraceptive practices and menstrual bleeding frequency undertaken by the sample population.

Results: Eight hundred and fifty one participants completed the questionnaire, ~ 2/3rds of respondents are currently using a hormonal contraceptive (66% of all respondents), with the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) being most common. Most women (73%) reported monthly menstruation, although 16% indicated that they sometimes missed their monthly period, with bleeding every two months. Of all OCP users, approximately 2/3rds have skipped their monthly period at some time, the most common reasons being for convenience (89%). Approximately 70% of respondents were interested in OCP regimens that reduced frequency or duration of menstruation.

Conclusion: OCP use is popular amongst Australian university women, with many being interested in the concept of using the OCP to delay menstruation. Given this interest and the availability of hormonal contraceptives that reduce menstrual frequency and duration, assessing the impact of reduced menstrual blood loss on iron stores may be warranted.