Why Do Female Astronauts Take Birth Control Pi.lls in Space? The Surprising "Golden" Solution for Protection

For decades, space travel was considered a man's job, but more than 70 women have ventured into space since 1963. Despite their achievements, female astronauts face unique challenges, including one surprising requirement: taking birth control pi.lls. But why is this necessary?

 

 

Are Women at a Disadvantage in Space Travel?

Historically, men were seen as the ideal candidates for space missions due to perceived physical strength. However, women have several advantages:

• Lower body weight, which reduces fuel consumption and logistics costs.
• Lower calorie requirements, using 15-25% fewer calories than men for the same tasks.
• Smaller body size, leading to less CO₂ and waste production, improving spacecraft recycling efficiency.
• Better tolerance for isolation compared to men.

Despite these benefits, female astronauts still face physiological challenges that male astronauts do not.

Why Do Female Astronauts Take Birth Control Pills Before Space Missions?

NASA initially hesitated to send women into space due to concerns about menstruation in microgravity. Blood circulation in space differs from Earth’s, potentially causing complications such as excessive bleeding and poor circulation.

To manage this, female astronauts have adopted hormonal regulation methods. Since the 1960s, Soviet and American astronauts have used strategies like scheduling missions around their cycles or taking birth control pills to suppress menstruation. These pills help maintain hormonal balance, prevent excessive endometrial growth, and delay periods.

However, long-term use of hormonal contraceptives carries risks, including blood clots and an increased likelihood of certain cancers. To address this, space agencies are researching alternatives such as magnetic pulse stimulation, which regulates the menstrual cycle by sending electrical signals to the brain.

Other potential solutions include hormone implants, which release steady doses over time, reducing the need for daily pills. However, implants pose risks like infections or immune rejection. Until safer options are available, birth control pills remain the most viable solution for menstrual suppression in space.

How Does Space Travel Affect the Menstrual Cycle?

Many female astronauts report irregular menstrual cycles while in space—periods arriving too early, too late, or with abnormal blood flow. These disruptions can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and anxiety.

To improve conditions, spacecraft now feature specialized bathrooms, multi-functional hygiene areas, and soundproofed private cabins. Nutritional adjustments, including vitamins and minerals, also help regulate hormone levels and reduce menstrual discomfort.

Despite advancements, gender-related challenges persist in space exploration. However, as technology evolves, future female astronauts may have better solutions for managing their biological needs while exploring the cosmos.