What effect does radiation above 10 rad have on female gonads?

Radiation exposure to female gonads above 10 rad can lead to temporary infertility because it affects the ovarian function without permanently damaging the reproductive cells. At doses of 10 rad or more, radiation can impact hormone levels and disrupt the normal ovulatory cycle, leading to a temporary halt in fertility.

Women may experience irregular cycles or delays in ovulation, but in many cases, normal ovarian function can resume after a period of time, allowing for the possibility of conception in the future.

The other potential effects, such as permanent sterility or changes in menstruation patterns, typically relate to higher radiation doses or different contexts of exposure, making this answer a more appropriate choice for exposures at the specified level. Increased menstruation and delayed menopause are not common outcomes associated with radiation at this level.