Menstrual Technology Innovations and the Implications for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Menstrual Health
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Menstruation management has historically relied on disposable products like pads and tampons.
• Emerging menstrual technologies (underwear, cups, discs) cater to diverse needs including sustainability and discretion.
• Current clinical tools for assessing heavy menstrual bleeding often overlook these newer technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current menstrual technologies and accessories.
• To provide insights for clinicians to take comprehensive menstrual histories.
• To improve the identification of heavy menstrual bleeding in the context of diverse menstrual products.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of menstrual technologies and accessories.
• Analysis of current practices in menstrual history taking.
• Evaluation of validated questionnaires for heavy menstrual bleeding.

Main Results:

• New menstrual products offer alternatives to traditional disposable items.
• Existing clinical questionnaires may not adequately capture data from users of novel menstrual products.
• A gap exists in integrating new menstrual technologies into routine gynecological care.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians require updated knowledge of menstrual technologies to effectively assess menstrual health.
• Comprehensive menstrual histories should encompass all types of menstrual products used.
• Improved identification strategies are needed to accurately diagnose heavy menstrual bleeding with modern menstrual products.