Impact of COVID-19 vaccination on menstrual cycle in women of reproductive age

Abstract

Objective: To study the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination on the menstrual cycle in response to concerns that the vaccines cause menstrual cycle disturbances and affect potential pregnancy.

Method: An online survey-based cross-sectional study was conducted from November 20 to 27, 2021. Study participants were women of reproductive age (15-49 years) and the study tool used was a semi-structured pretested questionnaire. A total of 300 participants were recruited for the study.

Results: The mean age (± standard deviation) of the participants was 26.2 ± 4.8 years. 232 participants (77.3%) were unmarried. Only 30 participants (10%) reported a change in the regularity of menstruation and 33 (11%) participants reported a change in cycle duration after vaccination.

Conclusion: In the present study, a change in the regularity of menstrual cycles was reported in 30 (10%) of the participants and a change in the duration of the cycle was reported in 11% of the participants (33). There was a significant association between the type of vaccine used and the changes in the menstrual cycle after vaccination. However, its long-term health implications are yet to be determined.

Keywords: coronavirus disease 2019; menstrual cycle; prolonged cycles; reproductive age group; vaccination.