The impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) on the menstrual cycle and mental health of young Georgian women

Abstract

The Coronavirus (COVID19) damages various systems and organs and can directly affect the reproductive system. Coronavirus infection affects not only physical health but also causes a significant threat to mental health. Objective of the study was to investigate the impact of the coronavirus infection and vaccination against coronavirus infection on the menstrual cycle and mental health of young Georgian women and establish the relationship between them. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted by administering online questionnaires to young women (18-25 years) in Georgia. Through questionnaires, we determined the characteristics of the menstrual cycle, the psychological state of the participants before being infected with the coronavirus, in the period 3-6 months after the infection and after the vaccination against the coronavirus infection. Results: 48.2 % of participants reported significant changes in their menstrual cycle after the coronavirus infection. Participants' mean menstrual cycle length significantly increased after 3 months of coronavirus infection, p<0.05. Participants' mean menstrual cycle length before, and 6 months after the coronavirus infection did not differ significantly. Duration of menstruation before the pandemic was significantly shorter than after 3 and 6 months of infection, p<0.05. The prevalence of premenstrual symptoms components and dysmenorrhea was significantly increased after 3 and 6 months of the coronavirus infection, p<0.05. Changes in the menstrual cycle within 3 months after vaccination were found in 58.8% of cases, the severity of which significantly decreased 6 months after vaccination, p<0.001. Women noted a significant increase in low mood, poor concentration, anxiety, poor sleep, loneliness after COVID-19 and vaccination, p<0.05 Conclusions: Coronavirus infection causes significant changes of the menstrual cycle and mental health in Georgian young women. The study indicated a link between the COVID-19 pandemic-induced anxiety, stress, depression, and menstrual cycle irregularity. Keywords: COVID-19; coronavirus infection, menstrual cycle; depression; stress.