A recent study indicates that individuals who contract Covid-19 might encounter slight and temporary alterations in the length of their menstrual cycles. The research underscores that these changes are generally inconsequential and tend to revert to the norm in subsequent menstrual cycles. Published in the Obstetrics & Gynecology journal, the study delved into menstrual cycle data from over 6,000 individuals spanning 110 countries, utilizing Clue, a platform focused on menstrual and reproductive health.
The study found that among participants who hadn’t been vaccinated and experienced Covid-19, there was an average increase of 1.45 days in menstrual cycle length when compared to their previous average cycle length. Similar alterations were observed in the group that had received a Covid-19 vaccination. The study’s authors stress that in both cohorts, these changes resolved in the first cycle following vaccination or recovery from illness.
Furthermore, the researchers acknowledged the interconnectedness of the immune and reproductive systems. While these findings might not be entirely unexpected due to this interaction, they serve to validate the experiences of the general public. The study provides assurance that if any changes in menstrual flow manifest during or after a Covid-19 infection, they are likely to be minor and transient.
On large scale, such changes typically don’t warrant worry
Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Oregon Health & Science University, Blair Darney, commented on the significance of the research. She emphasized, “Altering patterns in your menstrual cycle can understandably trigger concern. Through this research, we aim to reassure people that on a larger scale, such changes typically don’t warrant worry.”
The shifts in cycle length are presumed to arise from the temporary activation of the immune response due to disease. However, given the inherent variability in menstrual cycle length and bleeding patterns, it’s challenging to attribute Covid-19 as the sole cause.
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The study did not specifically focus on individuals grappling with long Covid. The physician-scientists also recommended that those experiencing prolonged changes in menstruation should seek advice from their medical practitioner.
In the future, the researchers aspire to unravel the biological mechanism behind these alterations. They plan to continue drawing insights from cycle tracking applications to further explore other reported menstrual variations post-vaccination, encompassing missed cycles, unforeseen vaginal bleeding, and discomfort.