Long COVID Linked to Menstrual Cycle Disruptions
Long COVID may disrupt menstrual cycles, with symptoms worsening before and during periods.
Why it matters
- Long COVID is linked to menstrual disruptions.
- The link may be bidirectional, meaning menstrual symptoms could also worsen long COVID symptoms.
- This could lead to better treatments for both conditions.
By the numbers
- 12,000 volunteers in the UK were studied.
- 1,048 people had long COVID.
- 1,716 people had acute COVID-19.
- 9,423 people were controls who never contracted COVID-19.
- Significant increases in menstrual flow volume, duration (more than eight days), intermenstrual bleeding, and missed episodes of menstruation in those with long COVID.
The big picture
- Menstrual changes have been reported since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Previous research focused on vaccination, but this study looks at COVID-19 infection itself.
- The study suggests endometrial inflammation and hormonal disruption play a role.
What they're saying
- Some people reported more regular menstruation after vaccination.
- Personal anecdotes are allowed in this discussion, indicating a mix of experiences.
- Some users report symptoms starting after vaccination and worsening after COVID-19 infection.
Caveats
- The study is observational, so causality cannot be established.
- More research is needed to confirm the findings and understand the mechanisms.
What’s next
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and develop treatments.
- The study suggests avenues for more tailored treatments for both menstrual disruption and long COVID.