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Supportive Health Solutions

Menstrual Suppression

Menstrual suppression helps transgender men and non-binary individuals stop menstruation during hormone therapy.

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Medically Verified
Dr. M. Sharoyko

Dr. M. Sharoyko

Internal Medicine Physician | MNr. 80134

Reviewed on:

Dr. Marina Sharoyko is a medical specialist in clinical pharmacology and internal medicine, with additional expertise in cardiology and physiology.

Menstrual Suppression

What Is Menstrual Suppression?

Menstrual suppression is the process of stopping or reducing menstrual cycles using hormonal treatments. It is commonly used by transgender men and non-binary individuals undergoing gender-affirming care.

For individuals taking testosterone therapy, menstruation typically stops within 6 months, but some may require additional treatments to fully suppress bleeding. Menstrual suppression is a key part of affirming gender identity and reducing distress related to menstruation.

Common Reasons for Menstrual Suppression:

  • Reducing Gender Dysphoria – Eliminates a distressing physical reminder of assigned sex at birth.
  • Enhancing the Effects of Testosterone Therapy – Supports the transition process.
  • Convenience & Comfort – Helps avoid discomfort related to menstruation.
  • Medical Reasons – Controls heavy or painful periods that persist despite hormone therapy.

Who Can Benefit from Menstrual Suppression?

  • Transgender Men (FTM) – Individuals taking testosterone who continue to experience breakthrough bleeding.
  • Non-Binary Individuals – Those seeking partial or full suppression of menstruation.
  • People Not Ready for Testosterone Therapy – Individuals who want to stop menstruation before or without testosterone.

Treatment Options and Lifestyle Considerations

Hormonal Treatments for Menstrual Suppression:
  • Testosterone Therapy – In most cases, testosterone alone is enough to stop menstruation within 6 months. Higher doses may be needed for complete suppression.
Progestin-Only Treatments:
  • Norethindrone (Aygestin) & Medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera)
  • Oral or Injectable Forms available
  • Used when testosterone does not fully stop menstrual cycles.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists:
  • Leuprolide Acetate (Lupron)
  • Highly effective but expensive
  • Used for persistent menstruation despite testosterone therapy.
Combined Hormonal Contraceptives (CHC):
  • Oral Pills, Patches, or Vaginal Rings
  • Contain estrogen, which may contradict testosterone therapy goals.
Lifestyle Considerations:
  • Regular Medical Monitoring – Blood tests and check-ups ensure hormone levels are balanced.
  • Bone Health Support – Vitamin D, calcium, and weight training help prevent osteoporosis.
  • Mental Well-being – Therapy and peer support groups assist with emotional challenges.
  • Stops or Reduces Menstruation – Improves alignment with gender identity.
  • Reduces Gender Dysphoria – Eliminates a major source of discomfort.
  • Enhances the Effects of Testosterone – Supports masculinization.
  • Better Quality of Life – Less anxiety and emotional distress.
  • Fertility Considerations – Menstrual suppression does not always mean permanent infertility.
  • Health Risks – Some treatments may increase blood clot risks or impact bone density.
  • Long-Term Planning – Consideration for future reproductive goals before stopping periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about Menstrual Suppression

For most transgender men, testosterone stops menstruation within 6 months, but some may need additional treatment.
  • Increase testosterone dosage under medical supervision.
  • Use progestins (e.g., Norethindrone, Medroxyprogesterone).
  • GnRH agonists may be needed in persistent cases.
  • Discuss this with your medical counselor.
Yes, options like progestin-only treatments (e.g., Depo-Provera) or GnRH agonists can suppress menstruation without testosterone.
  • Potential bone density loss (especially with GnRH agonists).
  • Blood clot risk if using estrogen-based methods (CHC).
  • Breakthrough bleeding may still happen in some cases.
Not necessarily. Some people may still ovulate, even if periods stop. If fertility is a concern, consult a specialist about fertility preservation options.

Scientific Sources