Presenter: Hannah Lakehomer
Mentor: Chris Minson
PM Poster Presentation
Poster 22
The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency and characteristics of menstrual cycle manipulation with combined hormonal contraception (CHC) among a population of college-age women. A self-administered email survey on menstrual cycle practices and beliefs was distributed to all female students at the U of O. Assessment of participant characteristics, menstrual cycle manipulation features, and attitudes/knowledge toward CHC was analyzed using standard statistical methods and probit models. Of respondents, 79.9% reported using CHC currently or recently and 20% of these women reported altering their menstrual cycle pattern or using ex- tended cycle regimens to delay/skip their menstrual periods. Of cycle manipulators, 47% indicated that they learned this practice from healthcare professionals, while about 30% indicated their source of information was from family or friends. Women taking CHC for period regulation, of Asian race, on a regular exercise program, and who preferred to menstruate monthly were less likely to manipulate their menstrual cycle. The likelihood of menstrual cycle manipulation increase dasfemaleage increased. Women whoused the pill, who preferred to menstruate less than monthly, and who felt fairly knowledgeable about their CHC were more likely to manipulate their menstrual cycle. In conclusion, a significant percentage of university-aged women who use CHC choose to manipulate their menstrual cycle and the characteristics of these women may predict probability of this choice.