For modern women who are overwhelmed by their daily lives, menstruation often becomes an unwelcome guest. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or the accompanying pain that comes with each menstrual cycle can have a significant impact on daily life. The constant trips to the restroom and the hassle of preparing menstrual products are no small annoyance. In South Korea, the average age of menopause for women is 49.7 years old. This means that women have to endure menstruation and its ups and downs for approximately 35 years, from menarche to menopause. But what if we had the choice to opt out of menstruation, just like choosing menstrual products? If women have the freedom to choose menstrual products, they should also have the freedom to choose a life without menstruation.

Injections

One method to reduce menstrual flow is by receiving progesterone injections. A single injection can stop menstruation for three months. Progesterone is a hormone that halts the menstrual cycle when a woman becomes pregnant. Through contraceptive injections, progesterone tricks our bodies into thinking that pregnancy has occurred. In South Korea, it is marketed under the name "SAYANA." SAYANA, which contains medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) as its active ingredient, prevents follicle development and ovulation, and thins the endometrial lining in the uterus, resulting in contraceptive effects. Possible side effects include breakthrough bleeding, increased appetite, weight gain, and a potential risk of decreased bone density with long-term use.

Subcutaneous Implants

Subcutaneous implants involve inserting a tiny rod containing only progesterone into the inner arm. This procedure provides contraceptive effects for three to five years. The most commonly used implant in South Korea is Implanon. The implantation process is straightforward and can be done without significant time constraints. The small amount of hormone released from the rod maintains a consistent but low concentration of progesterone in the bloodstream, preventing ovulation. This method is effective not only for women who are sensitive to estrogen-related side effects but also for improving menstrual pain. Menstruation resumes immediately upon removal of the implant. However, a slight 2-3mm needle mark may remain at the insertion site, and breakthrough bleeding may occur.

Intrauterine Devices (IUD)

IUD involves inserting a small, flexible plastic device in the uterus to provide contraception and interrupt menstruation. There are hormonal and non-hormonal options, and their effectiveness can last from five to a maximum of ten years, depending on the product. Regardless of the type, using a hormonal device generally reduces menstrual flow significantly compared to before. Non-hormonal options (copper IUD) are effective for contraception (less than 1% of users become pregnant within a year), but they may increase menstrual flow, cause increased vaginal discharge, and can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease. For a life without menstruation, it is worth considering a hormonal IUD. Hormonal IUD releases lower amounts of progesterone compared to other methods, resulting in fewer side effects for many women who may have experienced issues with other methods. Contrary to a misconception, women who have never been pregnant can also receive an IUD.

 

1. Mirena

Mirena is recommended for women who want to significantly reduce menstrual flow. Among hormonal IUDs, Mirena has a higher hormone content, and most women who use Mirena experience a complete cessation of menstruation. It releases levonorgestrel, a type of progesterone that increases cervical mucus and thins the endometrial lining in the uterus. Its effects can last for up to five years. However, due to its slightly larger size, some women may experience mild discomfort or pain immediately after insertion.

 

2. Jaydess

Jaydess was developed as a less painful alternative to Mirena, which can cause discomfort during insertion. It has very low hormone content and is smaller in size. Its effects last for three years.

 

3.Kyleena

Kyleena was developed to address the pain experienced during Mirena insertion and the shorter duration of hormone release in Jaydess compared to Mirena. It is smaller than Mirena and has a lower hormone content. Its effects last for up to five years.

Safeguard our bodies and our choices through thoughtful decisions and consistent maintenance

Even if one desires a life without menstruation, it is natural to have concerns about potential side effects. Experts explain that menstrual cessation procedures are generally safe and do not cause significant issues in the body. Changes in the uterine lining due to hormonal effects may lead to irregular bleeding, but over time, it tends to decrease. Approximately 20% of women may still experience breakthrough bleeding one year after the procedure. Increased appetite, weight gain, and skin problems can occur, and for intrauterine devices, there is a possibility of pelvic inflammatory disease.

 

Procedures and devices based on hormone actions naturally raise concerns. It is important to make careful choices and maintain consistent care to protect my body and my choices. Being well-informed about the possible side effects on my body, consulting with a specialist, and selecting the most suitable method are crucial. After the procedure, it is essential to visit the hospital every six months to a year to ensure that there are no significant abnormalities and that the inserted device remains in place.