Effect of COVID-19 Vaccine on Menstrual Cycles

Abstract

Background: A worldwide increase in menstrual abnormalities was reported post Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccinations. The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and impact of the menstrual abnormalities post COVID-19 vaccinations in Bahrain. The study also looked at the variations after first, second and third dose of vaccination. Methods: The survey was sent to the participants who had received the COVID-19 vaccinations (n=1000) via social media as well as printed copies; 343 responses were received. Participants who had a history of irregular menstruation prior to COVID-19, were on hormonal or non-hormonal medications, gynaecological and non-gynaecological diseases were excluded from the study. Results: The findings indicated that 62.5% of the participants reported menstrual abnormalities after COVID-19 vaccinations manifested as changes in frequency, length and quantity of menstruation. Majority of the participants had Sinopharm for their first and second doses (62.8% and 58.5% respectively) while majority of the participants had Pfizer as third or booster dose (88.4%); however, was no significant effect of the type of vaccine on the menstrual changes. 46.8% of the participants reported that their daily life activities were affected and about 5.8 % participants were prescribed medications to regulate their menstruation. Conclusion: The study indicated that there is a temporary effect of COVID-19 vaccination on menstrual cycle about which the women needs to be counselled and informed. Keywords: COVID-19 vaccination, menstrual abnormality, variation in menstruation