Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on the Menstrual Cycle: A Cross-Sectional Study from Karachi, Pakistan

Abstract

Background The COVID-19 disease triggered a worldwide health catastrophe. To deal with this deadly situation multiple vaccines were developed and a mass immunization program started globally. However, vaccine hesitancy was seen especially among women of reproductive age, having concerns that the vaccine might affect their menstrual cycle. This study investigated the link between COVID vaccination and menstrual abnormalities. It is essential for us to understand the effects of vaccines on menstruation as menstrual distress can have effects on everyday life, and mental and reproductive health. MethodsA cross-sectional study was performed using self-administered online forms to collect data from all over Karachi. The sample included 384 females aged 18 years and above. The data was collected from November 2021 to February 2022. ResultsMajority of the participants were aged 21 and had a normal BMI. Most were moderately stressed (n = 245) with 146 reporting menstrual changes post-vaccination. The difference between the post-vaccine menstruation affected (n = 146) and the unaffected cohort (n = 238) was significant. Other factors which likely contributed to the post-vaccine menstrual changes included PSS score, strenuous physical activity, and the pre-vaccine menstrual flow.ConclusionsIn conclusion, there is no denying that existing data is inadequate, which is one of the grounds for vaccination apprehension, particularly among menstruating women. To minimize this hesitation, the spread of disinformation about the vaccine's influence on the menstrual cycle must be avoided. Because such abnormalities may lower their overall quality of life. Policy-based interventions should also be implemented to document any menstruation-related side effects.

Impact of COVID-19 vaccination on the menstrual cycle in reproductive age group: An observational study

“…There was a significant relation between the COVID 19 vaccination and menstrual irregularity in the reproductive age group (p value 0.02) with median age group 30 years. In the study, Suaeleh et al [7] , showed median age group of 21 years and majority of participants had normal BMI. MM Al-Mehaisen et al [8] , analyzed the menstrual flow and observed statistically significant change in the flow with 24.5% of participants had increased flow and 15.5% had reduced flow.…”