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Sakurada Y, Matsuda Y, Motohashi K, Hasegawa T, Otsuka Y, Nakano Y, Tokumasu K, Yamamoto K, Sunada N, Honda H, Hagiya H, Ueda K, Otsuka F. Clinical characteristics of female long COVID patients with menstrual symptoms: a retrospective study from a Japanese outpatient clinic. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2024; 45:2305899. [PMID: 38270210 DOI: 10.1080/0167482x.2024.2305899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To elucidate the impact of long COVID on menstruation and mental health, medical records of patients with long COVID were evaluated. METHODS Symptoms of long COVID, QOL, mental health, and related endocrine data were compared between two groups with and without menstrual disturbances. RESULTS Of 349 female patients who visited our clinic between February 2021 and March 2023, 223 patients with long COVID (aged 18-50 years) were included. Forty-four (19.7%) of the patients had menstrual symptoms associated with long COVID. The patients with menstrual symptoms were older than those without menstrual symptoms (42.5 vs. 38 years). The percentage of patients with menstrual symptoms was higher during the Omicron phase (24%) than during the Preceding (13%) and Delta (12%) phases. Cycle irregularity was the most frequent (in 63.6% of the patients), followed by severe pain (25%), heavy bleeding (20.5%), perimenopausal symptoms (18.2%), and premenstrual syndrome (15.9%). Fatigue and depression were the most frequent complications. Scores for fatigue and for QOL were significantly worse in long COVID patients with menstrual symptoms. Results of endocrine examinations showed significantly increased cortisol levels in patients with menstrual complaints. CONCLUSION Long COVID has an impact on menstrual conditions and on QOL related to menstrual conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasue Sakurada
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yui Matsuda
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Kanon Motohashi
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Toru Hasegawa
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yuki Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Nakano
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Kazuki Tokumasu
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Koichiro Yamamoto
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Naruhiko Sunada
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Honda
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Hideharu Hagiya
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan
| | - Keigo Ueda
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
| | - Fumio Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama, Japan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan
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Żak K, Starek E, Korga-Plewko A, Rasoul-Pelińska K, Abramiuk M, Michalczuk M, Rajtak A, Kotarski J, Frankowska K, Bis L, Ostrowska-Leśko M, Bobiński M. Assessment of the Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Infection on the Sexual Function of Women, Levels of Oxytocin and Prolactin: A Prospective Cohort Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2230. [PMID: 38673504 PMCID: PMC11051359 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13082230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: There is a lack of direct evidence on whether SARS-CoV-2 affects women's sexual function through a biological-organic mechanism. Existing studies on the topic are few and have produced contradictory results. This study aims to explore the possible relationship between sex hormones and sexual function in patients who have been infected with SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, we aimed to determine whether these changes are related to the clinical course of COVID-19 and whether they are temporary or long-lasting. (2) Methods: A study was conducted on 104 women, including 64 women infected with COVID-19 and a control group of 40 healthy women, between January 2021 and August 2022. Blood samples were collected to measure prolactin and oxytocin levels, and a clinical assessment was performed 3 and 6 months later. Sexual function self-assessment was captured based on the FSFI scale. (3) Results: Our study found that patients with severe COVID-19 had better sexual satisfaction scores one month after recovery but no discernible difference after six months. High levels of serum prolactin were observed in patients with active COVID-19 but became similar to a control group after one month and remained stable over time. Higher prolactin levels were significantly associated with increased arousal and hydration. Individuals with severe COVID-19 had notably low levels of plasma oxytocin, but there was no correlation between oxytocin levels and sexual satisfaction. (4) Conclusions: The gynecologic symptoms, as well as disturbances in oxytocin and prolactin levels, might be observed in a short time after infection. However, SARS-CoV-2 infection has no lasting effect on sexual function, oxytocin, and prolactin levels among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Żak
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Ernest Starek
- I Chair and Department of Oncologic Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (K.R.-P.); (M.A.); (A.R.); (K.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Agnieszka Korga-Plewko
- Independent Medical Biology Unit, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.K.-P.); (M.M.)
| | - Karolina Rasoul-Pelińska
- I Chair and Department of Oncologic Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (K.R.-P.); (M.A.); (A.R.); (K.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Monika Abramiuk
- I Chair and Department of Oncologic Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (K.R.-P.); (M.A.); (A.R.); (K.F.); (M.B.)
- Independent Laboratory of Minimally Invasive Gynecology and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mariola Michalczuk
- Independent Medical Biology Unit, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.K.-P.); (M.M.)
| | - Alicja Rajtak
- I Chair and Department of Oncologic Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (K.R.-P.); (M.A.); (A.R.); (K.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Jan Kotarski
- Independent Laboratory of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Medical University in Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Karolina Frankowska
- I Chair and Department of Oncologic Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (K.R.-P.); (M.A.); (A.R.); (K.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Liliana Bis
- I Chair and Department of Oncologic Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (K.R.-P.); (M.A.); (A.R.); (K.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Marta Ostrowska-Leśko
- Chair and Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Marcin Bobiński
- I Chair and Department of Oncologic Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (K.R.-P.); (M.A.); (A.R.); (K.F.); (M.B.)
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3
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Abu-Lubad MA, Abu-Helalah MA, QawaQzeh MS, Alahmad EF, Al-Tamimi MM, Ruba'I MK, Etoom SH, Alfayoumi RK, Aldaoudeyeh FE, AlAbabneh EA, Al-Kharabsheh AM, Alshraideh H. Impact of COVID-19 infections and vaccination on menstrual cycle symptoms in the south of Jordan: a cross-sectional study. J Egypt Public Health Assoc 2024; 99:8. [PMID: 38594493 PMCID: PMC11004099 DOI: 10.1186/s42506-024-00153-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several recent studies have highlighted the need for more evaluation of the impact of COVID-19 infections and vaccines on the reproductive system and menstruation. This study aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 infection and vaccines on menstrual symptoms. METHODS A cross-sectional survey utilizing face-to-face interviews from January 1 to 31 March 2022 was conducted in the city of Al-Karak in southern Jordan. The questionnaire included sociodemographic characteristics, medical and reproductive history, the contraceptive method used if any, menstrual cycle (MC) status, previous medical and drug history, and the impact of infection and vaccination on the MC. RESULTS The study questionnaire was completed by 400 participants with a mean age of 32.1±12.6 years. Regarding the history of COVID-19 infections, 33.8% of the participants reported a history of confirmed COVID-19 infections, 77.8% of them did not report any menstrual changes following the infection, while the remaining 22.2% reported changes in menstruation. The most commonly reported post-COVID-19 manifestations were irregular (27.6%) and light menstrual cycle (MC) (24.15) or dysmenorrhea (24.1%). Heavy menstruation was reported by 17.2% of participants post-COVID-19 infection. Two-thirds of the study participants (66.6%) reported no changes in the MC following the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine. The most reported symptoms for those who experienced changes in the MC following the vaccination were irregular cycle (13.1%), heavy menstruation (7%), and light menstruation (7%). Other reported symptoms were dysmenorrhea (4.6%), intermenstrual bleeding (1.2%), and amenorrhea (0.5%). CONCLUSION This study revealed minor changes in the MC following COVID-19 infections and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine. These findings are consistent with published reports. It is recommended that future clinical trials for new vaccines for women of childbearing age include outcomes related to sex hormones and MC. Women should be encouraged to take the vaccines and report symptoms to healthcare professionals for further assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A Abu-Lubad
- Department of Microbiology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mutah University, P.O. Box 7 Mutah, Al-Karak, 61710, Jordan.
| | - Munir A Abu-Helalah
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Public Health Institute, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Esra'a F Alahmad
- Medical Students at Mutah University, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Karak, Jordan
| | - Malak M Al-Tamimi
- Medical Students at Mutah University, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Karak, Jordan
| | - Mohammad K Ruba'I
- Medical Students at Mutah University, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Karak, Jordan
| | - Sahm H Etoom
- Medical Students at Mutah University, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Karak, Jordan
| | - Rawan K Alfayoumi
- Medical Students at Mutah University, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Karak, Jordan
| | | | - Ekram A AlAbabneh
- Medical Students at Mutah University, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Karak, Jordan
| | - Ahlam M Al-Kharabsheh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Faculty of Medicine, Mutah University, Al-Karak, Jordan
| | - Hussam Alshraideh
- Department of Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Makhluf H, Madany H, Kim K. Long COVID: Long-Term Impact of SARS-CoV2. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:711. [PMID: 38611624 PMCID: PMC11011397 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14070711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Four years post-pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 continues to affect many lives across the globe. An estimated 65 million people suffer from long COVID, a term used to encapsulate the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infections that affect multiple organ systems. Known symptoms include chronic fatigue syndrome, brain fog, cardiovascular issues, autoimmunity, dysautonomia, and clotting due to inflammation. Herein, we review long COVID symptoms, the proposed theories behind the pathology, diagnostics, treatments, and the clinical trials underway to explore treatments for viral persistence, autonomic and cognitive dysfunctions, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and exercise intolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huda Makhluf
- Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, National University, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, La Jolla Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (H.M.); (K.K.)
| | - Henry Madany
- Center for Infectious Disease, La Jolla Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (H.M.); (K.K.)
- Public Health Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Kenneth Kim
- Center for Infectious Disease, La Jolla Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (H.M.); (K.K.)
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5
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Maybin J, Watters M, Rowley B, Walker C, Sharp G, Alvergne A. COVID-19 and abnormal uterine bleeding: potential associations and mechanisms. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:153-171. [PMID: 38372528 PMCID: PMC10876417 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The impact of COVID-19 on menstruation has received a high level of public and media interest. Despite this, uncertainty exists about the advice that women and people who menstruate should receive in relation to the expected impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection, long COVID or COVID-19 vaccination on menstruation. Furthermore, the mechanisms leading to these reported menstrual changes are poorly understood. This review evaluates the published literature on COVID-19 and its impact on menstrual bleeding, discussing the strengths and limitations of these studies. We present evidence consistent with SARS-CoV-2 infection and long COVID having an association with changes in menstrual bleeding parameters and that the impact of COVID vaccination on menstruation appears less significant. An overview of menstrual physiology and known causes of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is provided before discussing potential mechanisms which may underpin the menstrual disturbance reported with COVID-19, highlighting areas for future scientific study. Finally, consideration is given to the effect that menstruation may have on COVID-19, including the impact of the ovarian sex hormones on acute COVID-19 severity and susceptibility and reported variation in long COVID symptoms across the menstrual cycle. Understanding the current evidence and addressing gaps in our knowledge in this area are essential to inform public health policy, direct the treatment of menstrual disturbance and facilitate development of new therapies, which may reduce the severity of COVID-19 and improve quality of life for those experiencing long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline A. Maybin
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
| | - Marianne Watters
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
| | - Bethan Rowley
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
| | - Catherine A. Walker
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
| | | | - Alexandra Alvergne
- ISEM, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
- School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, Oxford, U.K
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6
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Polese D, Costanzi F, Bianchi P, Frega A, Bellati F, De Marco MP, Parisi P, Bruni O, Caserta D, Cozza G. The impact of COVID-19 on menstrual cycle's alterations, in relation to depression and sleep disturbances: a prospective observational study in a population of medical students. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:130. [PMID: 38373995 PMCID: PMC10877769 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-02971-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sars-Cov-2 pandemic has determined psychological stress, particularly in the young population of medical students. We studied the impact of the pandemic on menstrual cycle alteration in relation to psychological stress, presence of depression, sleep disturbances and post-traumatic stress, on a population of medical students. METHODS 293 female students at the Faculty of Medicine and Psychology of the Sapienza University of Rome (23.08 years old ± 3.8) were enrolled. In March 2021, one year after quarantine, a personal data sheet on menstrual cycle, examining the quality of the menstrual cycle during the pandemic, compared to the previous period. Concomitantly, the Beck Depression Inventory and the Impact of Event Scale have been administered. A Pearson chi-square test was assessed to evaluate the difference between the characteristics of the menstrual cycle and the scores obtained with the questionnaires. RESULTS A statistically significant association between menstrual alterations and stress during pandemic had been found. The onset of depressive symptoms and sleep disturbances was observed in 57.1% and in 58.1% of young women with cycle's alterations, respectively. Amenorrhea was three times more common in female students with depressive symptoms, premenstrual syndrome had a significant correlation with both depression and sleep disturbances. The pandemic has been related to menstrual alterations, with depressive symptoms and sleep disorders. Amenorrhea is connected to depression, as observed on the functional hypothalamic amenorrhea. CONCLUSIONS The pandemic affected the menstrual cycle as well as the depressive symptoms and sleep. Practical implications of the study lead to the development of strategies for psychological intervention during the pandemic experience, in order to help medical trainees, with specific attention to women's needs. Future studies should analyze the impact of other types of social stress events, on sleep, depression and the menstrual cycle beside the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Polese
- PhD Program on Sensorineural Plasticity, Department of Neuroscience, Mental Health and Sensory Organs NESMOS, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, Rome, 00189, Italy.
| | - Flavia Costanzi
- Gynecology Division, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, Rome, 00189, Italy
| | - Paola Bianchi
- Gynecology Division, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, Rome, 00189, Italy
| | - Antonio Frega
- Gynecology Division, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, Rome, 00189, Italy
| | - Filippo Bellati
- Gynecology Division, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, Rome, 00189, Italy
| | - Maria Paola De Marco
- Gynecology Division, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, Rome, 00189, Italy
| | - Pasquale Parisi
- Chair of Pediatrics, NESMOS Department, Faculty of Medicine & Psychology, Sapienza University c/o Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, Rome, 00189, Italy
| | - Oliviero Bruni
- Department of Social and Developmental Psychology, Sapienza University, Via dei Marsi 78, Rome, 00185, Italy
| | - Donatella Caserta
- Gynecology Division, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, Rome, 00189, Italy
| | - Giuliana Cozza
- Gynecology Division, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, Rome, 00189, Italy
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7
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Alvergne A, Boniface E, Darney B, Shea A, Weber K, Ventola C, Vitzthum VJ, Edelman A. Associations Among Menstrual Cycle Length, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), and Vaccination. Obstet Gynecol 2024; 143:83-91. [PMID: 37562052 PMCID: PMC10715707 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with menstrual cycle length changes and, if so, how that compares with those undergoing vaccination or no event (control). METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis in which we analyzed prospectively tracked cycle-length data from users of a period tracker application who also responded to a survey regarding COVID-19 symptoms and vaccination. We restricted our sample to users aged 16-45 years, with normal cycle lengths (24-38 days) and regular tracking behavior during the five cycles around COVID-19 symptoms or vaccination or a similar time period for those experiencing no event (control group). We calculated the within-user change in cycle length (days) from the three consecutive cycles preevent average (either vaccination, disease, or neither; cycles 1-3) to the event (cycle 4) and postevent (cycle 5) cycles. We used mixed-effects models to estimate the age- and country-adjusted difference in change in cycle length across the groups. RESULTS We included 6,514 users from 110 countries representing 32,570 cycles (COVID-19 symptoms: 1,450; COVID-19 vaccination: 4,643; control: 421). The COVID-19 cohort experienced a 1.45-day adjusted increase in cycle length during cycle 4 (COVID-19) compared with their three preevent cycles (95% CI 0.86-2.04). The vaccinated group experienced a 1.14-day adjusted increase in cycle length during cycle 4 (COVID-19 vaccine) compared with their preevent average (95% CI 0.60-1.69). The control group (neither vaccine nor disease) experienced a 0.68-day decrease (95% CI -1.18 to -0.19) in a similar time period. Post hoc tests showed no significant differences in the magnitude of changes between the COVID-19 and vaccination cohorts. In both cohorts, cycle length changes disappeared in the postevent cycle. CONCLUSION Experiencing COVID-19 is associated with a small change in cycle length similar to COVID-19 vaccination. These changes resolve quickly within the next cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Alvergne
- Institute for Evolutionary Sciences, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France; the School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, and the OHSU-PSU School of Public Health, Portland, Oregon; the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), Center for Population Health (CISP), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico; and Clue by BioWink GmbH, Berlin, Germany
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8
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Li J, Bai J, Xiang X, Guo Y, Yu H. Effect of COVID-19 on Menstruation and Lower Reproductive Tract Health. Int J Womens Health 2023; 15:1999-2013. [PMID: 38152614 PMCID: PMC10752023 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s433516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate the dynamically impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the female reproductive system. Methods An online survey was shared to women of reproductive age who had been infected with COVID-19 and recovered in China between January and March 2023. Results In total, 610 women of childbearing age completed the menstrual component of the survey and 82.6% (n=504) women self-purchased medications without hospitalization. 254 women were menstruating during COVID-19 infection. 66.9% of them reported changes in menstruation, including cycle length (64.7%), menstrual flow (72.4%), and duration (53%), compared to pre-COVID-19. COVID-19-related chest tightness (OR: 9.5; 95% CI: 1.9-46.3), COVID-19-related stress (OR: 18.4; 95% CI: 1.4-249.7), and COVID-19-related low mood (OR: 6.2; 95% CI: 1.4-28.2) were associated with these menstrual changes. However, over 73% of women who menstruated during and after COVID-19 regained their pre-infection menstrual cycle (73%), duration (79.6%), and flow (75.2%) during their first menstruation after COVID-19 recovery. Compared to pre-infection, 19.7% (n=124) women reported changes in lower reproductive tract during COVID-19, including volume and color of vaginal discharge, vulvar pruritus, and vaginitis. These changes were significantly increased in those with a history of pelvic inflammatory disease (OR: 12.1; 95% CI: 3.1-48.2), ovarian cysts (OR: 4.9; 95% CI: 1.2-19.4), and vaginitis (OR: 5.5; 95% CI: 2.1-14.4) prior to COVID-19. However, 52.4% reported that their lower reproductive tract health had returned to its pre-infection within the first month after recovery from COVID-19, while 73.5% reported a return to the pre-infection within 2 months. Conclusion Changes in menstruation and lower reproductive tract associated with COVID-19 are transient. Menstruation and lower reproductive tract health will gradually return to pre-COVID-19 status within 2 months of recovery, which can help alleviate excessive concerns about the effects of COVID-19 on the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaosheng Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Central People’s Hospital of Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaojiao Bai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuanxuan Xiang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yifan Guo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haotian Yu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Eighth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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9
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Granese R, Incognito GG, Gulino FA, Casiraro G, Porcaro P, Alibrandi A, Martinelli C, Ercoli A. Effects of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination on Menstrual Cycle: An Italian Survey-Based Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7699. [PMID: 38137768 PMCID: PMC10744112 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12247699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 has played a critical role in controlling the spread of the pandemic. The main side effects of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination include fever and fatigue; however, the potential impacts on menstrual cycles are to be determined. Given the limited number of studies suggesting menstrual changes post vaccination, this study investigates the correlation between COVID-19 vaccines and menstrual cycle changes in fertile-aged Italian women. A questionnaire was distributed from 1 October to 31 November 2022, focusing on menstrual rhythm and flow changes post vaccination. The analysis involved 471 participants. The study observed a shift from a regular to an irregular menstrual rhythm (p < 0.001), and changes in menstrual duration (p = 0.008 and p < 0.001 for first and second doses, respectively) and flow volume (p < 0.001). Most patients with irregular rhythms were vaccinated in the proliferative phase of their cycle. Within six months post vaccination, 74.2% of women with irregular post-vaccination rhythms reported a return to normality. These findings indicate primarily transient menstrual changes following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination, suggesting the vaccines' safety for women of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Granese
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Giosuè Giordano Incognito
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Antonio Gulino
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adults and Developmental Age, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (G.C.); (C.M.); (A.E.)
| | - Giorgia Casiraro
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adults and Developmental Age, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (G.C.); (C.M.); (A.E.)
| | - Paola Porcaro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Santa Maria Ungheretti” Hospital, 89024 Polistena, Italy;
| | - Angela Alibrandi
- Unit of Statistical and Mathematical Sciences, Department of Economics, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy;
| | - Canio Martinelli
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adults and Developmental Age, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (G.C.); (C.M.); (A.E.)
| | - Alfredo Ercoli
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adults and Developmental Age, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (G.C.); (C.M.); (A.E.)
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10
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Zhong X, Lu K, Liang W, Jihu L, Zeng A, Ding M, Chen D, Xie M. The impact of SARS-COV-2 infection on menstruation. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:611. [PMID: 37974147 PMCID: PMC10655360 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02697-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent study has demonstrated that the GnRH system in patients with post-COVID syndrome may be influenced by SARS-CoV-2. However, the impact of COVID-19 infection on women's menstruation is still unknown. OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate the the relationship between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and menstruation in premenopausal women. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study. Pre-menopausal women were invited to participate in the online questionnaire on wechat. Participants were divided into four groups according to whether they were infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-COV-2) and whether they had menstrual changes during the pandemic. Sociodemographic characteristics, history of COVID-19, menstruation and menstrual changes of the participants were collected. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, version 25.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). RESULTS A total of 1946 women were included in the study. 1800 participants had been or were currently infected with SARS-COV-2, and 146 people had not been infected. Among 1800 patients with COVID-19, 666 (37.0%) had changes in menstruation, and 1134 (63.0%) did not, which was significantly higher than the uninfected participants (c2 = 12.161, P = 0.000). The proportion of participants with menstrual cycle changes (450/67.6%) is larger than that of uninfected participants (c2 = 6.904, P = 0.009). COVID-19 vaccination was associated with lower odds of menstrual cycle change (OR, 0.855; 95% CI, 0.750-0.976). Participants who reported chest pain (OR, 1.750, 95% CI, 1.209-2.533) and dyspnea (OR, 1.446; 95% CI, 1.052-1.988) during infection had greater odds of changes to their menstrual cycle compared with the participants who did not. CONCLUSIONS The association between the COVID-19 and increased prevalence of menstrual cycle irregularity. COVID-19 vaccination is a protective factor in the long term, and participants with chest pain and dyspnea are more likely to develop AUB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaozhu Zhong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou City, 510120, China
| | - Keji Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou City, 510120, China
| | - Weiying Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou City, 510120, China
| | - Luozi Jihu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou City, 510120, China
| | - Anqi Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou City, 510080, China
| | - Miao Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou City, 510120, China
| | - Dongmei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou City, 510120, China.
| | - Meiqing Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou City, 510120, China.
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11
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Yi SJ, Kim M, Park I. Investigating influencing factors on premenstrual syndrome (PMS) among female college students. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:592. [PMID: 37950208 PMCID: PMC10638779 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02752-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects women's physical and mental health. Depression, stress, sleep disturbance, and eating attitude problems have been known to influence PMS. Furthermore, restrictions of daily life due to the COVID-19 pandemic have led to changes in sleep patterns and eating attitudes. Thus, it is necessary to closely examine how these factors affect PMS. This study aimed to examine the levels of PMS, stress, depression, sleep disturbance, and eating attitude problems among female college students who experience dysmenorrhea and determine the factors associated with PMS. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey design was conducted using a convenience sample of 143 female college students in C City, South Korea. Data were collected from September 1 to 19, 2021 in South Korea using an online self-administered survey. Differences in participants' level of PMS according to physical health variables (e.g., smoking, water intake, menstrual pain intensity) and psychological issues (i.e., stress, depression, sleep disturbances, and eating attitude problems) were assessed with independent sample t-tests and one-way ANOVAs. Correlational analyses between these variables were also conducted. Additionally, multiple regression was performed to identify the factors influencing PMS. RESULTS PMS severity was between normal (27.3%) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) (72.7%). PMS was associated positively with depression (r = .284, p = 001), stress (r = .274, p = .001), sleep disturbance (r = .440, p < .001), and eating attitude problems (r = .266, p = .001). Additionally, menstrual pain intensity (β = 0.204), sleep disturbances (β = 0.375), and eating attitude problems (β = 0.202) were found to influence PMS. The regression model was significant (F = 16.553, p < .001) with an explanatory power of 24.7%. CONCLUSIONS Considering the influencing factors of PMS identified in this study, interventions for participants experiencing PMS should be made. We propose that further study should be conducted to examine whether the severity of PMS changes according to menstrual pain, the pattern and degree of its change, and the paths through which sleep quality and eating attitude problems affect PMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Jeong Yi
- Department of Nursing, Dankook University, 119, Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea
| | - Miok Kim
- Department of Nursing, Dankook University, 119, Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea.
| | - Ina Park
- Center for Sport Science in Chungnam, 370-24, Nambu-ro, Asan-si, Chungcheongnam-do, Republic of Korea
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12
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Mitra A, Verbakel JY, Kasaven LS, Tzafetas M, Grewal K, Jones B, Bennett PR, Kyrgiou M, Saso S. The menstrual cycle and the COVID-19 pandemic. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290413. [PMID: 37819943 PMCID: PMC10566721 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of COVID-19 virus on menstrual cycles in unvaccinated women is limited. OBJECTIVE To investigate the prevalence of changes to menstrual cycle characteristics, hormonal symptoms and lifestyle changes prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A retrospective online cross-sectional survey completed by social media users between July 2020 to October 2020. Participants were living in the United Kingdom (UK), premenopausal status and, or over 18 years of age. MAIN OUTCOME(S) AND MEASURES(S) The primary outcome was to assess changes to menstrual cycle characteristics during the pandemic following the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys (CHERRIES). Secondary outcomes included assessment of hormonal and lifestyle changes. RESULTS 15,611 social media users completed the survey. Of which, 75% of participants experienced a change in their menstrual cycle, with significantly greater proportions reporting irregular menstrual cycles (P<0·001), bleeding duration more than seven days (P<0·001), longer mean cycle length (P<0·001) and overall bleeding duration (P<0·001). Over half the participants reported worsening of premenstrual symptoms including low mood/depression, anxiety and irritability. When stratified according to COVID-19 infection, there was no significant difference in menstrual cycle changes. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in considerable variation in menstrual cycle characteristics and hormonal symptoms. This appears to be related to societal and lifestyle changes resulting from the pandemic, rather than to the virus itself. We believe this may have an impact on the individual, as well as national economy, healthcare, and population levels, and therefore suggest this should be taken into consideration by governments, healthcare providers and employers when developing pandemic recovery plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Mitra
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jan Y. Verbakel
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lorraine S. Kasaven
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Cutrale and Perioperative Ageing Group, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Menelaos Tzafetas
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Grewal
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Jones
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Phillip R. Bennett
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Kyrgiou
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Srdjan Saso
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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13
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Hajjo R, Momani E, Sabbah DA, Baker N, Tropsha A. Identifying a causal link between prolactin signaling pathways and COVID-19 vaccine-induced menstrual changes. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:129. [PMID: 37658087 PMCID: PMC10474200 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00719-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines have been instrumental tools in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 helping to reduce disease severity and mortality. At the same time, just like any other therapeutic, COVID-19 vaccines were associated with adverse events. Women have reported menstrual cycle irregularity after receiving COVID-19 vaccines, and this led to renewed fears concerning COVID-19 vaccines and their effects on fertility. Herein we devised an informatics workflow to explore the causal drivers of menstrual cycle irregularity in response to vaccination with mRNA COVID-19 vaccine BNT162b2. Our methods relied on gene expression analysis in response to vaccination, followed by network biology analysis to derive testable hypotheses regarding the causal links between BNT162b2 and menstrual cycle irregularity. Five high-confidence transcription factors were identified as causal drivers of BNT162b2-induced menstrual irregularity, namely: IRF1, STAT1, RelA (p65 NF-kB subunit), STAT2 and IRF3. Furthermore, some biomarkers of menstrual irregularity, including TNF, IL6R, IL6ST, LIF, BIRC3, FGF2, ARHGDIB, RPS3, RHOU, MIF, were identified as topological genes and predicted as causal drivers of menstrual irregularity. Our network-based mechanism reconstruction results indicated that BNT162b2 exerted biological effects similar to those resulting from prolactin signaling. However, these effects were short-lived and didn't raise concerns about long-term infertility issues. This approach can be applied to interrogate the functional links between drugs/vaccines and other side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rima Hajjo
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, P.O. Box 130, Amman, 11733, Jordan.
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Jordan CDC, Amman, Jordan.
| | - Ensaf Momani
- Department of Basic Medical sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Al Balqa' Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Dima A Sabbah
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, P.O. Box 130, Amman, 11733, Jordan
| | - Nancy Baker
- ParlezChem, 123 W Union St., Hillsborough, NC, 27278, USA
| | - Alexander Tropsha
- Laboratory for Molecular Modeling, Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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14
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Alvergne A. Why we must fight ignorance about COVID-19 vaccines and menstrual cycles. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:678-680. [PMID: 37429799 PMCID: PMC10285200 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed a critical gap in female health science, fueling anxiety, polarized views, and vaccine hesitancy. Although menstrual cycles feel like a niche topic for some, efforts to augment knowledge on the 'fifth vital sign' experienced by more than 300 million people on any given day worldwide are crucial to promote gender equity in health.
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15
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Rahimi Mansour F, Keyvanfar A, Najafiarab H, Rajaei Firouzabadi S, Sefidgar S, Hooshmand Chayijan S, Tarom M, Fadaei M, Farzaneh F, Karimzadeh Bardeei L, Tehrani S. Menstrual disturbances following COVID-19 vaccination: A probable puzzle about the role of endocrine and immune pathways. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 158:103952. [PMID: 37201456 PMCID: PMC10174728 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Menstruation is a monthly shedding of the uterine wall, presented by menstrual bleeding in women of reproductive age. Menstruation is regulated by fluctuation of estrogen and progesterone, as well as other endocrine and immune pathways. Many women experienced menstrual disturbances after vaccination against the novel coronavirus in the last two years. Vaccine-induced menstrual disturbances have led to discomfort and concern among reproductive-age women, such that some decided not to receive the subsequent doses of the vaccine. Although many vaccinated women report these menstrual disturbances, the mechanism is still poorly understood. This review article discusses the endocrine and immune changes following COVID-19 vaccination and the possible mechanisms of vaccine-related menstrual disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farima Rahimi Mansour
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirreza Keyvanfar
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hanieh Najafiarab
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Sahar Sefidgar
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammadreza Tarom
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahta Fadaei
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farah Farzaneh
- Preventative Gynecology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shabnam Tehrani
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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16
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AlRasheed MM, Al-Aqeel S, Aboheimed GI, AlRasheed NM, Abanmy NO, Alhamid GA, Alnemari HM, Alkhowaiter S, Alharbi AR, Khurshid F, Trabelsi K, Jahrami HA, BaHammam AS. Quality of Life, Fatigue, and Physical Symptoms Post-COVID-19 Condition: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11111660. [PMID: 37297800 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11111660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The magnitude of post-COVID-19 syndrome was not thoroughly investigated. This study evaluated the quality of life and persistence of fatigue and physical symptoms of individuals post-COVID-19 compared with noninfected controls. The study included 965 participants; 400 had previous COVID-19 disease and 565 controls without COVID-19. The questionnaire collected data on comorbidities, COVID-19 vaccination, general health questions, and physical symptoms, in addition to validated measures of quality of life (SF-36 scale), fatigue (fatigue severity scale, FSS), and dyspnea grade. COVID-19 participants complained more frequently of weakness, muscle pain, respiratory symptoms, voice disorders, imbalance, taste and smell loss, and menstrual problems compared to the controls. Joint symptoms, tingling, numbness, hypo/hypertension, sexual dysfunction, headache, bowel, urinary, cardiac, and visual symptoms did not differ between groups. Dyspnea grade II-IV did not differ significantly between groups (p = 0.116). COVID-19 patients scored lower on the SF-36 domains of role physical (p = 0.045), vitality (p < 0.001), reported health changes (p < 0.001), and mental-components summary (p = 0.014). FSS scores were significantly higher in COVID-19 participants (3 (1.8-4.3) vs. 2.6 (1.4-4); p < 0.001). COVID-19 effects could persist beyond the acute infection phase. These effects include changes in quality of life, fatigue, and persistence of physical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha M AlRasheed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sinaa Al-Aqeel
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghada I Aboheimed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noura M AlRasheed
- General Administration of School Health, Ministry of Health, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Norah Othman Abanmy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghadeer Abdulaziz Alhamid
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hadeel Mohammed Alnemari
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saad Alkhowaiter
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Division, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Rashed Alharbi
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary Division, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fowad Khurshid
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled Trabelsi
- High Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax 3000, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory: Education, Motricity, Sport and Health, EM2S, LR19JS01, University of Sfax, Sfax 3000, Tunisia
| | - Haitham A Jahrami
- Government Hospitals, Manama 323, Bahrain
- College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama 323, Bahrain
| | - Ahmed S BaHammam
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University Sleep Disorders Center, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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17
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Rastegar T, Feryduni L, Fakhraei M. COVID-19 vaccine side effects on menstrual disturbances among Iranian women. New Microbes New Infect 2023; 53:101114. [PMID: 37065964 PMCID: PMC10085868 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2023.101114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Many studies reported of menstrual disturbances as possible side effects of COVID-19 vaccination. Our objective was to evaluate the association between vaccination and the occurrence of menstrual disturbances among Iranian women. Methods We used to google form questionnaires to collect reports of menstrual disturbances from 455 women aged 15-55 years in Iran. We estimated the relative risk of menstrual disturbances according to vaccination in a self-controlled case-series design after vaccination. We examined the occurrence of such disorders after the first, second and third doses of vaccine. Results Findings The prevalence of menstrual disturbance was more in latency and heavy bleeding than others disorder after vaccination, although ֮ %50 of women doesn't have any disturbance. We observed increased risks after vaccination also for other menstrual disturbances, in menopausal women too (>10%). Discussion Menstrual disturbances were generally common regardless of vaccination. We found a significant increase in menstrual disturbances after vaccination, particularly for latency and heavier bleeding than usual, longer duration and for short interval between menstruations. Mechanisms underlying these findings may involve bleeding disturbances in general, as well as endocrine alterations of immune system stimulation and relation to hormonal secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayebeh Rastegar
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Burns and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Lila Feryduni
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Fakhraei
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Pourmasumi S, Kounis NG, Naderi M, Hosseinisadat R, Khoradmehr A, Fagheirelahee N, Kouni SN, de Gregorio C, Dousdampanis P, Mplani V, Michalaki MA, Plotas P, Assimakopoulos S, Gogos C, Aidonidis G, Roditis P, Matsas N, Velissaris D, Calogiuri G, Hung MY, Koniari I. Effects of COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination on the Female Reproductive System: A Narrative Review. Balkan Med J 2023; 40:153-164. [PMID: 37114907 PMCID: PMC10175880 DOI: 10.4274/balkanmedj.galenos.2023.2023-3-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies and research papers have been published to elucidate and understand the mechanism of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and its long-term effects on the human body. COVID-19 affects a number of organs, including the female reproductive system. However, less attention has been given to the effects of COVID-19 on the female reproductive system due to their low morbidity. The results of studies investigating the relationship between COVID-19 infection and ovarian function in women of reproductive age have shown the harmless involvement of COVID-19 infection. Several studies have reported the involvement of COVID-19 infection in oocyte quality, ovarian function, and dysfunctions in the uterine endometrium and the menstrual cycle. The findings of these studies indicate that COVID-19 infection negatively affects the follicular microenvironment and dysregulate ovarian function. Although the COVID-19 pandemic and female reproductive health have been studied in humans and animals, very few studies have examined how COVID-19 affects the female reproductive system. The objective of this review is to summarize the current literature and categorize the effects of COVID-19 on the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, and hormonal profiles. The effects on oocyte maturation, oxidative stress, which causes chromosomal instability and apoptosis in ovaries, in vitro fertilization cycle, high-quality embryos, premature ovarian insufficiency, ovarian vein thrombosis, hypercoagulable state, women’s menstrual cycle, the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis, and sex hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, and the anti-Müllerian hormone, are discussed in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheila Pourmasumi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Ali-Ibn Abi-Talib Hospital, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Nicholas G. Kounis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Monavar Naderi
- Knowledge and Information Science, Vice Chancellor for Science and Technology, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Robabe Hosseinisadat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Arezoo Khoradmehr
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Niloofar Fagheirelahee
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | | | - Cesare de Gregorio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina Medical School, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Virginia Mplani
- Intensive Care Unit, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | - Marina A. Michalaki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Fculty of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Stelios Assimakopoulos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Christos Gogos
- COVID-19 Unit, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Pavlos Roditis
- Department of Cardiology, Mamatsio Kozanis General Hospital, Kozani, Greece
| | | | | | - Gianfranco Calogiuri
- Pneumonology Department, Civil Hospital “Ninetto Melli”, Pietro Vernoti, Brindisi, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Section of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Ming-Yow Hung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taipei Heart Institute, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ioanna Koniari
- Departmentof Cardiology, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK
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19
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Ljung R, Xu Y, Sundström A, Leach S, Hallberg E, Bygdell M, Larsson M, Arthurson V, Gisslén M, Gedeborg R, Nyberg F. Association between SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and healthcare contacts for menstrual disturbance and bleeding in women before and after menopause: nationwide, register based cohort study. BMJ 2023; 381:e074778. [PMID: 37137493 PMCID: PMC10543813 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-074778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the risks of any menstrual disturbance and bleeding following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in women who are premenopausal or postmenopausal. DESIGN A nationwide, register based cohort study. SETTING All inpatient and specialised outpatient care in Sweden from 27 December 2020 to 28 February 2022. A subset covering primary care for 40% of the Swedish female population was also included. PARTICIPANTS 2 946 448 Swedish women aged 12-74 years were included. Pregnant women, women living in nursing homes, and women with history of any menstruation or bleeding disorders, breast cancer, cancer of female genital organs, or who underwent a hysterectomy between 1 January 2015 and 26 December 2020 were excluded. INTERVENTIONS SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, by vaccine product (BNT162b2, mRNA-1273, or ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (AZD1222)) and dose (unvaccinated and first, second, and third dose) over two time windows (one to seven days, considered the control period, and 8-90 days). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Healthcare contact (admission to hospital or visit) for menstrual disturbance or bleeding before or after menopause (diagnosed with the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision codes N91, N92, N93, N95). RESULTS 2 580 007 (87.6%) of 2 946 448 women received at least one SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and 1 652 472 (64.0%) 2 580 007 of vaccinated women received three doses before the end of follow-up. The highest risks for bleeding in women who were postmenopausal were observed after the third dose, in the one to seven days risk window (hazard ratio 1.28 (95% confidence interval 1.01 to 1.62)) and in the 8-90 days risk window (1.25 (1.04 to 1.50)). The impact of adjustment for covariates was modest. Risk of postmenopausal bleeding suggested a 23-33% increased risk after 8-90 days with BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 after the third dose, but the association with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 was less clear. For menstrual disturbance or bleeding in women who were premenopausal, adjustment for covariates almost completely removed the weak associations noted in the crude analyses. CONCLUSIONS Weak and inconsistent associations were observed between SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and healthcare contacts for bleeding in women who are postmenopausal, and even less evidence was recorded of an association for menstrual disturbance or bleeding in women who were premenopausal. These findings do not provide substantial support for a causal association between SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and healthcare contacts related to menstrual or bleeding disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rickard Ljung
- Division of Use and Information, Swedish Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - YiYi Xu
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anders Sundström
- Division of Use and Information, Swedish Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Susannah Leach
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ebba Hallberg
- Division of Use and Information, Swedish Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Bygdell
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Larsson
- Division of Use and Information, Swedish Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Veronica Arthurson
- Division of Use and Information, Swedish Medical Products Agency, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Magnus Gisslén
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Department of Infectious Diseases, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Rolf Gedeborg
- Division of Licensing, Swedish Medical Products Agency, PO Box 26, 751 03 Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Nyberg
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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20
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Sun W, Xia L, Ji C, Wei Q, Zhang J, He S, Wang X, Shen X, Zhang X, Li C. Relationship between covid-pandemic anxiety and sleep disorder with menstrual disorders among female medical workers. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:210. [PMID: 37118730 PMCID: PMC10147349 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02314-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been more than 2 years since the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic destabilized the world, adversely affecting not only physical health, but also mental health. During this time, frontline medical workers were at a greater health risk, especially female medical workers. Changes or abnormalities in the menstrual cycle-an important indicator of women's health-may jeopardize female reproductive functioning. Considering that emotional health and sleep status may be related to the menstrual cycle, this study aimed to investigate the association between menstrual cycle changes, anxiety, sleep dysfunction, and other factors among female medical workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted by distributing online questionnaires to female medical workers in China from February to May 2022. The study included 160 women aged 18-45 years old. The questionnaires covered data related to the participants' sociodemographic characteristics, medical and reproductive history, and lifestyle. The Rating Scale for Clinical Manifestations of Menopathy (SCMM), Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and Sleep Dysfunction Rating Scale (SDRS) were utilized. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests, t-tests, and linear regression analysis. RESULTS A total of 160 female medical staff were randomly selected in this research, of whom seven scored less than 3 points, 85 scored 3-11 points, and 68 scored more than 11 points on the total score of the SCMM. Compared to pre-pandemic scores, scores of dizziness and tinnitus were significantly higher during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scores corresponding to the following clinical symptoms were also higher during the pandemic: Menopathy, including hypaphrodisia, dim complexion, abnormal urination, languidness, dim menstruation, thin menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and empty or saggy lower abdomen (p < 0.05). However, pre-pandemic scores of vaginal bleeding quantity were significantly higher than those found during the COVID-19 pandemic (p < 0.05). Scores of vaginal bleeding quantity were significantly lower in cabin hospitals than other types of hospitals, and a similar finding was observed for vaginal bleeding duration (all p < 0.05). Moreover, the findings of the univariable and multivariable linear regression analysis revealed a link between consistent exercise, the underlying illness, the SDRS score, the SAS score, and the total score of SCMM (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In this study, we found that menstruation in female medical workers was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, regular exercise and good physical condition were protective factors, while anxiety and insomnia were risk factors for menstrual abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxi Sun
- Psychiatry department of Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215137, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Liping Xia
- Psychiatry department of Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215137, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Caifang Ji
- Psychiatry department of Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215137, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qianqian Wei
- Psychiatry department of Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215137, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Psychiatry department of Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215137, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Sidi He
- Psychiatry department of Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215137, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xuqin Wang
- Psychiatry department of Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215137, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xueqin Shen
- The Affiliated Jiangsu Shengze Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, 215100, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaobin Zhang
- Psychiatry department of Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215137, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Chuanwei Li
- Psychiatry department of Suzhou Guangji Hospital, Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215137, Jiangsu Province, China.
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21
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Gorman CN, Abdalla TE, Sultan Y, Grabois SA, Wood EG. Transient Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Post-COVID-19 Infection. Cureus 2023; 15:e37379. [PMID: 37182044 PMCID: PMC10171879 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.37379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-ovarian antibodies (AOAs) have been linked to autoimmune premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). This report details a case in which a patient experienced transient POI after a COVID-19 infection and tested positive for AOA. After treatment with oral contraceptives and subsequent high-dose oral corticosteroids, the patient underwent fertility treatment with in vitro fertilization (IVF). A total of 23 oocytes were retrieved. Two euploid blastocysts and three untested blastocysts were successfully created. This report hypothesizes the connection between autoimmune POI, AOA, and COVID-19. Conflicting data have been reported linking COVID-19 and ovarian injury. However, it is suggested that COVID-19 transiently impacts the menstrual cycle and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels. Treatment to overcome poor ovarian response due to AOA has not been adequately determined; however, similar autoimmune conditions have been successfully treated with corticosteroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen N Gorman
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Davie, USA
| | - Tori E Abdalla
- Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Yasmina Sultan
- Biomedical Sciences Program, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, USA
| | | | - Ellen G Wood
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVFMD South Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Cooper City, USA
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22
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Asakawa T, Cai Q, Shen J, Zhang Y, Li Y, Chen P, Luo W, Zhang J, Zhou J, Zeng H, Weng R, Hu F, Feng H, Chen J, Huang J, Zhang X, Zhao Y, Fang L, Yang R, Huang J, Wang F, Liu Y, Lu H. Sequelae of long COVID, known and unknown: A review of updated information. Biosci Trends 2023; 17:85-116. [PMID: 36928222 DOI: 10.5582/bst.2023.01039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Over three years have passed since the COVID-19 pandemic started. The dangerousness and impact of COVID-19 should definitely not be ignored or underestimated. Other than the symptoms of acute infection, the long-term symptoms associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, which are referred to here as "sequelae of long COVID (LC)", are also a conspicuous global public health concern. Although such sequelae were well-documented, the understanding of and insights regarding LC-related sequelae remain inadequate due to the limitations of previous studies (the follow-up, methodological flaws, heterogeneity among studies, etc.). Notably, robust evidence regarding diagnosis and treatment of certain LC sequelae remain insufficient and has been a stumbling block to better management of these patients. This awkward situation motivated us to conduct this review. Here, we comprehensively reviewed the updated information, particularly focusing on clinical issues. We attempt to provide the latest information regarding LC-related sequelae by systematically reviewing the involvement of main organ systems. We also propose paths for future exploration based on available knowledge and the authors' clinical experience. We believe that these take-home messages will be helpful to gain insights into LC and ultimately benefit clinical practice in treating LC-related sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Asakawa
- Institute of Neurology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qingxian Cai
- Department of Hepatology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiayin Shen
- Department of Science and Education, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yongshuang Li
- Department of Dermatology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peifen Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wen Luo
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiangguo Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinfeng Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hui Zeng
- Department of Cardiology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ruihui Weng
- Department of Neurology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Feng Hu
- Department of Nephrology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huiquan Feng
- Department of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Hepatology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jie Huang
- Department of Dermatology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoyin Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- Department of Neurology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liekui Fang
- Department of Urology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rongqing Yang
- Department of Dermatology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jia Huang
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fuxiang Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yingxia Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongzhou Lu
- Institute of Neurology, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
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23
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Davis HE, McCorkell L, Vogel JM, Topol EJ. Long COVID: major findings, mechanisms and recommendations. Nat Rev Microbiol 2023; 21:133-146. [PMID: 36639608 PMCID: PMC9839201 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-022-00846-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 901] [Impact Index Per Article: 901.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Long COVID is an often debilitating illness that occurs in at least 10% of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections. More than 200 symptoms have been identified with impacts on multiple organ systems. At least 65 million individuals worldwide are estimated to have long COVID, with cases increasing daily. Biomedical research has made substantial progress in identifying various pathophysiological changes and risk factors and in characterizing the illness; further, similarities with other viral-onset illnesses such as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome have laid the groundwork for research in the field. In this Review, we explore the current literature and highlight key findings, the overlap with other conditions, the variable onset of symptoms, long COVID in children and the impact of vaccinations. Although these key findings are critical to understanding long COVID, current diagnostic and treatment options are insufficient, and clinical trials must be prioritized that address leading hypotheses. Additionally, to strengthen long COVID research, future studies must account for biases and SARS-CoV-2 testing issues, build on viral-onset research, be inclusive of marginalized populations and meaningfully engage patients throughout the research process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julia Moore Vogel
- Scripps Research Translational Institute, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Eric J Topol
- Scripps Research Translational Institute, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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24
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Ata B, Vermeulen N, Mocanu E, Gianaroli L, Lundin K, Rautakallio-Hokkanen S, Tapanainen JS, Veiga A. SARS-CoV-2, fertility and assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:177-196. [PMID: 36374645 PMCID: PMC9976972 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020, SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on the access to and provision of ART treatments. Gradually, knowledge of the virus and its transmission has become available, allowing ART activities to resume. Still, questions on the impact of the virus on human gametes and fertility remain. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This article summarizes published data, aiming to clarify the impact of SARS-CoV-2 and the COVID-19 disease on human fertility and assisted reproduction, as well as the impact of vaccination, and from this, provide answers to questions that are relevant for people contemplating pregnancy and for health care professionals. SEARCH METHODS PUBMED/MEDLINE and the WHO COVID-19 database were searched from inception to 5 October 2022 with search terms focusing on 'SARS-CoV-2' and gametes, embryos, reproductive function, fertility and ART. Non-English studies and papers published prior to 2020 were excluded, as well as reviews and non-peer reviewed publications. Full papers were assessed for relevance and quality, where feasible. OUTCOMES From the 148 papers included, the following observations were made. The SARS-CoV-2-binding proteins, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and type II transmembrane serine protease (TMPRSS2), are expressed in the testis, but co-expression remains to be proven. There is some evidence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the ejaculate of COVID-19 patients with severe disease, but not in those with mild/moderate disease. SARS-CoV-2 infection can impair spermatogenesis, but this seems to resolve after one spermatogenic cycle. Testosterone levels seem to be lower during and after COVID-19, but long-term data are lacking; disease severity may be associated with testosterone levels. COVID-19 cannot be considered a sexually transmitted disease. There is no co-expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in the myometrium, uterus, ovaries or fallopian tubes. Oocytes seem to have the receptors and protease machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, viral RNA in oocytes has not been detected so far. Women contemplating pregnancy following COVID-19 may benefit from screening for thyroid dysfunction. There is a possible (transient) impact of COVID-19 on menstrual patterns. Embryos, and particularly late blastocysts, seem to have the machinery to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Most studies have not reported a significant impact of COVID-19 on ovarian reserve, ovarian function or follicular fluid parameters. Previous asymptomatic or mild SARS-CoV-2 infection in females does not seem to negatively affect laboratory and clinical outcomes of ART. There are no data on the minimum required interval, if any, between COVID-19 recovery and ART. There is no evidence of a negative effect of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on semen parameters or spermatogenesis, ovarian function, ovarian reserve or folliculogenesis. A transient effect on the menstrual cycle has been documented. Despite concerns, cross reactivity between anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibodies and Syncytin-1, an essential protein in human implantation, is absent. There is no influence of mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine on patients' performance during their immediate subsequent ART cycle. Pregnancy rates post-vaccination are similar to those in unvaccinated patients. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review highlights existing knowledge on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection or COVID-19 on fertility and assisted reproduction, but also identifies gaps and offers suggestions for future research. The knowledge presented should help to provide evidence-based advice for practitioners and couples contemplating pregnancy alike, facilitating informed decision-making in an environment of significant emotional turmoil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Ata
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.,ART Fertility Clinics, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Edgar Mocanu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Rotunda Hospital and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Luca Gianaroli
- Società Italiana Studi di Medicina della Riproduzione, S.I.S.Me.R. Reproductive Medicine Institute, Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | - Kersti Lundin
- Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Juha S Tapanainen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oulu University Hospital and Medical Research Centre PEDEGO Research Unit, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anna Veiga
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, IDIBELL Programme for Regenerative Medicine, Barcelona, Spain
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Casillas F, Flores-González A, Juárez-Rojas L, López A, Betancourt M, Casas E, Bahena I, Bonilla E, Retana-Márquez S. Chronic stress decreases fertility parameters in female rats. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2023; 69:234-244. [PMID: 36848400 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2023.2171822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Multiple effects of stress on health have been reported; however, reproductive alterations in oocytes and cumulus cells have not been fully described. In females, chronic stress has been shown to produce alterations in the estrous cycle, to decrease oocyte in vivo maturation, and to increase the percentage of abnormal oocytes. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the oocytes from chronically stressed female rats could recover and mature in vitro by providing them with all the necessary culture conditions, as well as to evaluate the functionality of the GAP junctions, and the viability and DNA integrity of the cumulus cells, which are crucial for the complete maturation and development of the oocyte. For this, rats were stressed daily by cold water immersion (15 °C) during 15 min for 30 consecutive days. Corticosterone serum levels in rats increased as an indicator of stress. Chronic stress decreased the percentage of in vitro matured oocytes because the cumulus cells presented irreparable damage to their DNA that led to their death, being unable to establish bidirectional communication with the oocyte for its meiotic resumption through the GAP junctions, which were also damaged. These findings could partially explain an association between stress and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahiel Casillas
- Department of Biology of Reproduction, Metropolitan Autonomous University- Iztapalapa Unit, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alejandra Flores-González
- Master's Degree in Animal Reproduction Biology, Metropolitan Autonomous University- Iztapalapa Unit, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Lizbeth Juárez-Rojas
- Department of Biology of Reproduction, Metropolitan Autonomous University- Iztapalapa Unit, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alma López
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University- Iztapalapa Unit, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miguel Betancourt
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University- Iztapalapa Unit, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Eduardo Casas
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University- Iztapalapa Unit, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Iván Bahena
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University- Iztapalapa Unit, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Edmundo Bonilla
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University- Iztapalapa Unit, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Socorro Retana-Márquez
- Department of Biology of Reproduction, Metropolitan Autonomous University- Iztapalapa Unit, Mexico City, Mexico
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Dellino M, Vimercati A, D’Amato A, Damiani GR, Laganà AS, Cicinelli E, Pinto V, Malvasi A, Scacco S, Ballini A, Resta L, Ingravallo G, Maiorano E, Cazzato G, Cascardi E. "GONE WITH THE WIND": The Transitory Effects of COVID-19 on the Gynecological System. J Pers Med 2023; 13:jpm13020312. [PMID: 36836546 PMCID: PMC9962077 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13020312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease no longer seems to represent an insurmountable global problem. This is thanks to the advent of coronavirus vaccines, which have alleviated the most serious symptoms associated with this disease. On the other hand, there are still many extrapulmonary symptoms of COVID-19, and among these also those of a gynecological nature. At the moment, there are several questions in this field, one above all concerns the causal link between COVID-19, vaccines and gynecological alterations. Furthermore, another important aspect is represented by the clinical impact of post-COVID-19 gynecological alterations on the female population which, to date, would seem to be mainly due to their duration, even if the extent of these symptoms is still poorly understood. Furthermore, it is not possible to foresee eventual long-term aggravations, or more serious symptoms caused by other viral variants that may arrive in the future. In this review, we focus on this theme and attempt to reorganize the different pieces of a puzzle which, to date, does not seem to have shown us its complete picture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Dellino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonella Vimercati
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Jonic Area, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio D’Amato
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Unit of Gynecologic Oncology, ARNAS “Civico—Di Cristina—Benfratelli”, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Ettore Cicinelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Pinto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Malvasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Salvatore Scacco
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences and Neurosciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (E.C.)
| | - Andrea Ballini
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Leonardo Resta
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Jonic Area, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ingravallo
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Jonic Area, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Eugenio Maiorano
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Jonic Area, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Gerardo Cazzato
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Jonic Area, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Eliano Cascardi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
- Pathology Unit, FPO-IRCCS Candiolo Cancer Institute, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (E.C.)
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Kajiwara S, Akiyama N, Baba H, Ohta M. Association between COVID-19 vaccines and the menstrual cycle in young Japanese women. J Infect Chemother 2023; 29:513-518. [PMID: 36623727 PMCID: PMC9822555 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiac.2023.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although several studies have investigated the association between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines and the menstrual cycle, available data are limited. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of COVID-19 vaccines on the menstrual cycle and the effect of the menstrual cycle phase on the vaccine side effects during vaccine administration in Japan. METHODS A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on the date of vaccination; type of vaccine; type, grade, and duration of the side effects; regularity of menstruation; normal length of the menstrual cycle; and the day one date of menstruation around vaccination. The survey was conducted from October 2021 to March 2022. RESULTS The difference between the predicted and actual menstrual cycle length was 1.9 ± 3.0, 1.6 ± 2.8 (p = 0.557), and 2.5 ± 3.8 (p = 0.219) days before vaccination and after the first and second dose of the vaccine, respectively. In participants who received vaccinations twice within a single menstrual cycle, this difference was 1.3 ± 3.5 and 3.9 ± 3.3 (p = 0.045) days before and after vaccination, respectively. The grade and proportion of the side effects after the second dose of the vaccine was highest during the menstrual period and lowest during the ovulation period, with a significant effect on headache and chills. CONCLUSION COVID-19 vaccines tended to prolong the menstrual cycle. The side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine tended to be at a maximum when vaccination occurred during the menstrual period and minimal during the ovulation period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihoko Kajiwara
- School of Nursing, Gifu University of Health Science, 2-92 Higashiuzura, Gifu-city, Gifu, 500-8281, Japan.
| | - Naomi Akiyama
- School of Nursing, Gifu University of Health Science, 2-92 Higashiuzura, Gifu-city, Gifu, 500-8281, Japan
| | - Hisashi Baba
- Center for Nutrition Support and Infection Control, Gifu University Hospital, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu-city, Gifu, 501-1194, Japan
| | - Michio Ohta
- School of Rehabilitation, Gifu University of Health Science, 2-92 Higashiuzura, Gifu-city, Gifu, 500-8281, Japan
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Ovarian Reserve Disorders, Can We Prevent Them? A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315426. [PMID: 36499748 PMCID: PMC9737352 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The ovarian reserve is finite and begins declining from its peak at mid-gestation until only residual follicles remain as women approach menopause. Reduced ovarian reserve, or its extreme form, premature ovarian insufficiency, stems from multiple factors, including developmental, genetic, environmental exposures, autoimmune disease, or medical/surgical treatment. In many cases, the cause remains unknown and resulting infertility is not ultimately addressed by assisted reproductive technologies. Deciphering the mechanisms that underlie disorders of ovarian reserve could improve the outcomes for patients struggling with infertility, but these disorders are diverse and can be categorized in multiple ways. In this review, we will explore the topic from a perspective that emphasizes the prevention or mitigation of ovarian damage. The most desirable mode of fertoprotection is primary prevention (intervening before ablative influence occurs), as identifying toxic influences and deciphering the mechanisms by which they exert their effect can reduce or eliminate exposure and damage. Secondary prevention in the form of screening is not recommended broadly. Nevertheless, in some instances where a known genetic background exists in discrete families, screening is advised. As part of prenatal care, screening panels include some genetic diseases that can lead to infertility or subfertility. In these patients, early diagnosis could enable fertility preservation or changes in family-building plans. Finally, Tertiary Prevention (managing disease post-diagnosis) is critical. Reduced ovarian reserve has a major influence on physiology beyond fertility, including delayed/absent puberty or premature menopause. In these instances, proper diagnosis and medical therapy can reduce adverse effects. Here, we elaborate on these modes of prevention as well as proposed mechanisms that underlie ovarian reserve disorders.
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Gibson EA, Li H, Fruh V, Gabra M, Asokan G, Jukic AMZ, Baird DD, Curry CL, Fischer-Colbrie T, Onnela JP, Williams MA, Hauser R, Coull BA, Mahalingaiah S. Covid-19 vaccination and menstrual cycle length in the Apple Women's Health Study. NPJ Digit Med 2022; 5:165. [PMID: 36323769 PMCID: PMC9628464 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-022-00711-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccination may be associated with change in menstrual cycle length following vaccination. We estimated covariate-adjusted differences in mean cycle length (MCL), measured in days, between pre-vaccination cycles, vaccination cycles, and post-vaccination cycles within vaccinated participants who met eligibility criteria in the Apple Women's Health Study, a longitudinal mobile-application-based cohort of people in the U.S. with manually logged menstrual cycles. A total of 9652 participants (8486 vaccinated; 1166 unvaccinated) contributed 128,094 cycles (median = 10 cycles per participant; inter-quartile range: 4-22). Fifty-five percent of vaccinated participants received Pfizer-BioNTech's mRNA vaccine, 37% received Moderna's mRNA vaccine, and 8% received the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen (J&J) vaccine. COVID-19 vaccination was associated with a small increase in MCL for cycles in which participants received the first dose (0.50 days, 95% CI: 0.22, 0.78) and cycles in which participants received the second dose (0.39 days, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.67) of mRNA vaccines compared with pre-vaccination cycles. Cycles in which the single dose of J&J was administered were, on average, 1.26 days longer (95% CI: 0.45, 2.07) than pre-vaccination cycles. Post-vaccination cycles returned to average pre-vaccination length. Estimated follicular phase vaccination was associated with increased MCL in cycles in which participants received the first dose (0.97 days, 95% CI: 0.53, 1.42) or the second dose (1.43 days, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.80) of mRNA vaccines or the J&J dose (2.27 days, 95% CI: 1.04, 3.50), compared with pre-vaccination cycles. Menstrual cycle change following COVID-19 vaccination appears small and temporary and should not discourage individuals from becoming vaccinated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A. Gibson
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Huichu Li
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Victoria Fruh
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Malaika Gabra
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Gowtham Asokan
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Anne Marie Z. Jukic
- grid.280664.e0000 0001 2110 5790Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC USA
| | - Donna D. Baird
- grid.280664.e0000 0001 2110 5790Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC USA
| | | | | | - Jukka-Pekka Onnela
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Michelle A. Williams
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Russ Hauser
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA ,grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Brent A. Coull
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA ,grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Shruthi Mahalingaiah
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
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Qashqari FSI, Dahlawi M, Assaggaf HM, Alsafi R, Gari A, Abudawood A, Al-Doboke A, Alsulami S, Bukhari R, Majeed SA, Salih EA, Alfelali M, Makhdoom H, Jalal NA. Effect of the COVID-19 Vaccine on the Menstrual Cycle among Females in Saudi Arabia. Ethiop J Health Sci 2022; 32:1083-1092. [PMID: 36475264 PMCID: PMC9692149 DOI: 10.4314/ejhs.v32i6.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The number of reports of menstrual changes after COVID-19 vaccination in the Saudi population is still unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of the COVID-19 vaccine(Pfizer, AstraZeneca, and Moderna) on the menstrual cycle among females in Saudi Arabia. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia at Umm Al-Qura University (UQU) from August 2021 to February 2022. Data was collected through a previously validated online questionnaire. Results A total of 2338 participants who received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine participated in this study; 1606 (68.7%) of them received the second dose in addition to the first. The mean age of the study participants was 35.4±9.5 years. No significant associations were found between the type of COVID-19 vaccine and the impact on the menstrual cycle, either for the first or second dose (P-values > 0.05). A significant association was found only between the first dose vaccination day and the impact on the menstrual cycle in the second question of "After receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, your next period was" (P-value ≤ 0.05). Significant associations were found between the second dose vaccination day and the impact on the menstrual cycle in the first and second questions of "After receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, your next period was", and "After receiving the first dose, your next period was," respectively (P-values ≤ 0.05). Conclusion The study found a potential association between the COVID-19 vaccine and menstrual cycle irregularities, which could impact females' quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi S I Qashqari
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam Dahlawi
- College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamza M Assaggaf
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Radi Alsafi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahim Gari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman Abudawood
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Rabigh Medical College, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal Al-Doboke
- College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia
| | - Seham Alsulami
- College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rahaf Bukhari
- College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Elaf Abdullah Salih
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Medical Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabi
| | - Mohammad Alfelali
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hatim Makhdoom
- Applied Medical Sciences College, Laboratory Technology Department, Taibah University, Almadinah Almunwarah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif A Jalal
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia
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Zhang B, Yu X, Liu J, Liu J, Liu P. COVID-19 vaccine and menstrual conditions in female: data analysis of the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:403. [PMID: 36195902 PMCID: PMC9532224 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01934-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In reports of adverse reactions following vaccination with the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19) vaccines, there have been fewer reports of concern for menstrual disorders in female. OBJECTIVE Our study employed Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) to investigate and analyze the relationship between COVID-19 Vaccines and menstrual disorders in female. METHODS We collected reports of menstrual disorders in VAERS from July 2, 1990 to November 12, 2021, and performed a stratified analysis. The potential relationship between COVID-19 vaccine and reports of menstrual disorders was evaluated using the Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR) method. RESULTS A total of 14,431 reports of menstrual disorders were included in the study, and 13,118 were associated with COVID-19 vaccine. The ROR was 7.83 (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 7.39-8.28). The most commonly reported event was Menstruation irregular (4998 reports), and a higher percentage of female aged 30-49 years reported menstrual disorders (42.55%) after exposure to COVID-19 Vaccines. Both for all reports of menstrual disorders (ROR = 5.82; 95%CI: 4.93-6.95) and excluding reports of unknown age (ROR = 13.02; 95%CI: 10.89-15.56),suggest that female age may be associated with menstrual disorders after vaccination with the COVID-19 Vaccines. CONCLUSION There is a potential safety signal when the COVID-19 vaccine is administered to young adult female (30-49 years old), resulting in menstrual disorders in. However, due to the well-known limitations of spontaneous reporting data, it is challenging to explicity classify menstrual disorders as an adverse event of the COVID-19 Vaccines, and reports of adverse reactions to COVID-19 Vaccines in this age group should continue to be tracked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Zhang
- First School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Yu
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China
| | - Jinxing Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China
| | - Jinbao Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China.
| | - Pengfei Liu
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250000, Shandong, China.
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32
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Namiki T, Komine‐Aizawa S, Takada K, Takano C, Trinh QD, Hayakawa S. The association of three doses of the
BNT162b2 mRNA
vaccine with abnormal bleeding and an irregular menstrual cycle among premenopausal females: A single institute observation study. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:2903-2910. [PMID: 36319205 PMCID: PMC9538126 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background The COVID‐19 vaccine is effective in preventing severe cases of COVID‐19. For women, gynecological adverse events, such as menstrual irregularities and irregular bleeding, could be a concern after COVID‐19 vaccination. In this study, we investigated gynecological adverse events in the vaccinated Japanese female population. Methods We conducted a survey‐based study with health‐care workers, including medical doctors and nurses, medical coworkers, and medical university faculty, staff, and students, at a single medical school and affiliated hospital in Japan. We used McNemar's test and network analysis. Results Overall, we obtained 819 responses, and 424 were from females. After the exclusion of contradictory answers, 309 surveys were finally considered appropriate for the analysis. The frequencies of abnormal bleeding were 0.6%, 1.0%, and 3.0% for the first, second, and third doses, respectively. An irregular menstrual cycle was more common than abnormal bleeding: 1.9%, 4.9%, and 6.6% for the first, second, and third doses, respectively. Network analysis revealed that abnormal bleeding and an irregular menstrual cycle were not associated with other adverse reactions. Conclusion The present study showed that the effects of COVID‐19 vaccination on menstruation seem limited.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shihoko Komine‐Aizawa
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology Nihon University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Kazuhide Takada
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology Nihon University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Chika Takano
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology Nihon University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Quang Duy Trinh
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology Nihon University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
| | - Satoshi Hayakawa
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology and Microbiology Nihon University School of Medicine Tokyo Japan
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Amer AA, Amer SA, Alrufaidi KM, Abd-Elatif EE, Alafandi BZ, Yousif DA, Armi NT, Alkhalaf AA, Shah J, Ramadan MS. Menstrual changes after COVID-19 vaccination and/or SARS-CoV-2 infection and their demographic, mood, and lifestyle determinants in Arab women of childbearing age, 2021. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:927211. [PMID: 36303671 PMCID: PMC9580647 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.927211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background By September 2, 2021, over 30,000 COVID-19-vaccinated females had reported menstrual changes to the MHRA's Yellow Card surveillance system. As a result, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is urging researchers to investigate the COVID-19 vaccine's effects on menstruation. Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the menstrual changes after COVID-19 vaccination and/or SARS-CoV-2 infection and their interrelations with demographic, mood, and lifestyle factors in Arab women of childbearing age (CBA). Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted during October 2021 using an Arabic validated and self-administrated questionnaire. In total, 1,254 Women of CBA in the Arabic Population (15–50 y) with regular menstrual cycles were randomly selected from five countries (Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Syria, Libya, and Sudan). Results The mean (SD) age of the 1,254 studied females was 29.6 (8.5) years old. In total, 634 (50%) were married, 1,104 (88.0%) had a University education or above, 1,064 (84.4%) lived in urban areas, and 573 (45.7%) had normal body weight. Moreover, 524 (41.8%) were COVID-19 cases and 98 women (18.7%) reported menstrual changes (MCs). The 1,044 (83.5%) vaccinated females reported 418 (38.5%) MCs after being vaccinated, and these MCs resolved in 194 women (55.1%) after more than 9 months. Statistically significant relationships were observed between the reported MCs and the following variables: age, marital status, level of education, nationality, residence, and BMI. MCs were reported at 293(80.6) after the 2nd dose, and were mainly reported after 482 (46.1) Pfizer, 254 (24.3) Astrazenica, and 92 (8.8) Senopharm. Conclusion MCs among women of CBA after COVID-19 infection and vaccination are prevalent and complex problems, and had many determinates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed A. Amer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Samar A. Amer
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
- Royal College of General Practioners, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Eman Elsayed Abd-Elatif
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Bana Zuhair Alafandi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Aleppo, Aleppo, Syria
- *Correspondence: Bana Zuhair Alafandi
| | | | | | | | - Jaffer Shah
- New York State Department of Health, New York, NY, United States
- Jaffer Shah
| | - Mohamed Sh Ramadan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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Gibson EA, Li H, Fruh V, Gabra M, Asokan G, Jukic AMZ, Baird DD, Curry CL, Fischer-colbrie T, Onnela J, Williams MA, Hauser R, Coull BA, Mahalingaiah S. Covid-19 vaccination and menstrual cycle length in the Apple Women’s Health Study.. [PMID: 35860226 PMCID: PMC9298140 DOI: 10.1101/2022.07.07.22277371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
AbstractBackgroundCOVID-19 vaccination may be associated with change in menstrual cycle length following vaccination.MethodsWe conducted a longitudinal analysis within a subgroup of 14,915 participants in the Apple Women’s Health Study (AWHS) who enrolled between November 2019 and December 2021 and met the following eligibility criteria: were living in the U.S., met minimum age requirements for consent, were English speaking, actively tracked their menstrual cycles, and responded to the COVID-19 Vaccine Update survey. In the main analysis, we included tracked cycles recorded when premenopausal participants were not pregnant, lactating, or using hormonal contraceptives. We used conditional linear regression and multivariable linear mixed-effects models with random intercepts to estimate the covariate-adjusted difference in mean cycle length, measured in days, between pre-vaccination cycles, cycles in which a vaccine was administered, and post-vaccination cycles within vaccinated participants, and between vaccinated and unvaccinated participants. We further compared associations between vaccination and menstrual cycle length by the timing of vaccine dose within a menstrual cycle (i.e., in follicular or luteal phase). We present Bonferroni-adjusted 95% confidence intervals to account for multiple comparisons.ResultsA total of 128,094 cycles (median = 10 cycles per participant; interquartile range: 4-22) from 9,652 participants (8,486 vaccinated; 1,166 unvaccinated) were included. The average within-individual standard deviation in cycle length was 4.2 days. Fifty-five percent of vaccinated participants received Pfizer-BioNTech’s mRNA vaccine, 37% received Moderna’s mRNA vaccine, and 7% received the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine (J&J). We found no evidence of a difference between mean menstrual cycle length in the unvaccinated and vaccinated participants prior to vaccination (0.24 days, 95% CI: −0.34, 0.82).Among vaccinated participants, COVID-19 vaccination was associated with a small increase in mean cycle length (MCL) for cycles in which participants received the first dose (0.50 days, 95% CI: 0.22, 0.78) and cycles in which participants received the second dose (0.39 days, 95% CI: 0.11, 0.67) of mRNA vaccines compared with pre-vaccination cycles. Cycles in which the single dose of J&J was administered were, on average, 1.26 days longer (95% CI: 0.45, 2.07) than pre-vaccination cycles. Post-vaccination cycles returned to average pre-vaccination length. Estimates for pre vs post cycle lengths were 0.14 days (95% CI: −0.13, 0.40) in the first cycle following vaccination, 0.13 days (95% CI: −0.14, 0.40) in the second, −0.17 days (95% CI: −0.43, 0.10) in the third, and −0.25 days (95% CI: −0.52, 0.01) in the fourth cycle post-vaccination. Follicular phase vaccination was associated with an increase in MCL in cycles in which participants received the first dose (0.97 days, 95% CI: 0.53, 1.42) or the second dose (1.43 days, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.80) of mRNA vaccines or the J&J dose (2.27 days, 95% CI: 1.04, 3.50), compared with pre-vaccination cycles.ConclusionsCOVID-19 vaccination was associated with an immediate short-term increase in menstrual cycle length overall, which appeared to be driven by doses received in the follicular phase. However, the magnitude of this increase was small and diminished in each cycle following vaccination. No association with cycle length persisted over time. The magnitude of change associated with vaccination was well within the natural variability in the study population. Menstrual cycle change following COVID-19 vaccination appears small and temporary and should not discourage individuals from becoming vaccinated.
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Issa R, Kharaba ZJ, Azzi V, Obeid S, Sawma T, Said ASA, Ahmad MMA, Alfoteih Y, Malaeb D, Hallit S. Menstrual symptoms variation among Lebanese women before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2022; 20:2699. [PMID: 36733514 PMCID: PMC9851823 DOI: 10.18549/pharmpract.2022.3.2699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Pandemic diseases and the confinement measures due to COVID-19 infection have introduced acute and persistent psychosocial stressors for different individuals with a greater influence on females manifested through changes in the menstrual cycle. The objective of this study was to assess Lebanese female of reproductive age about their menstrual cycle, their mental health, and their lifestyle, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Beirut blast, and the economic crises. Methods A cross-sectional online study conducted between October and December 2021, enrolled 398 Lebanese women using the snowball technique. The Menstrual Symptom Questionnaire (MSQ) was used to assess menstrual symptoms. A repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess factors associated with the variation in MSQ scores after vs before the pandemic. Results Our results showed that a significantly higher number of days of menses, number of pads per day and total MSQ score were significantly found after the pandemic compared to before it. More distress (Beta=0.68), more post-traumatic stress disorder due to COVID-19 (Beta=0.19), a higher number of waterpipes smoked per week (Beta=1.20) and being infected by COVID-19 compared to not (Beta=3.98) were significantly associated with an increase in the MSQ score after the pandemic compared to before it. Conclusion Our main findings indicate that females had irregular menstrual cycles, unpredictable bleeding pattern, and intense symptoms severity post COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, stress post COVID-19 and Beirut blast tended to be associated with increased menstrual symptoms. Thus, vulnerable women should be identified and offered appropriate care, information, and awareness regarding their menstrual period during a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Issa
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon.
| | - Zelal Jaber Kharaba
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, AAU Health and Biomedical Research Center, Al Ain University, 112612, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Honorary Associate lecturer, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon tyne, United Kingdom.
| | - Vanessa Azzi
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon.
| | - Sahar Obeid
- Social and Education Sciences Department, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Jbeil, Lebanon.
| | - Toni Sawma
- Psychology Department, College of Humanities, Effat University, Jeddah 21478, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Amira S A Said
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE, Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt.
| | - Mohammad M Al Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, AAU Health and Biomedical Research Center, Al Ain University, 112612, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Yassen Alfoteih
- Department of Dental Surgery, City University College of Ajman, Ajman, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Diana Malaeb
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon, College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon, Psychology Department, College of Humanities, Effat University, Jeddah 21478, Saudi Arabia, Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, P.O. Box 60096, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
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36
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Lebar V, Laganà AS, Chiantera V, Kunič T, Lukanović D. The Effect of COVID-19 on the Menstrual Cycle: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11133800. [PMID: 35807090 PMCID: PMC9267255 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11133800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Researchers have been studying COVID-19 from day one, but not much is known about the impact of COVID-19 on the reproductive system, specifically the female reproductive system. There has been substantial anecdotal and media coverage on the effect of COVID-19 on the female reproductive system and changes in the menstrual cycle, but so far available data are not robust enough to draw firm conclusions about the topic. This article was carried out to present already published studies on the correlation between SARS-CoV-2 infection and menstrual cycle changes. A systematic literature search was conducted on the Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Three studies were finally included in the review. The findings of the studies indicate changes in menstrual volume and changes in menstrual cycle length as consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection; the latter was also the most common menstrual irregularity reported by the included studies. Women have mainly reported decreased menstrual volume and a prolonged cycle. The findings also indicate that the severity of COVID-19 does not play a role in menstrual cycle changes. However, the research on this topic is still too scarce to draw definitive conclusions, and there is a need for further research. The relevant conclusions, which could be drawn only from a well-constructed study, would have a major effect on defining the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vojka Lebar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Unit of Gynecologic Oncology, ARNAS “Civico—Di Cristina—Benfratelli”, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.S.L.); (V.C.)
| | - Vito Chiantera
- Unit of Gynecologic Oncology, ARNAS “Civico—Di Cristina—Benfratelli”, Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (A.S.L.); (V.C.)
| | - Tina Kunič
- Department of Gynecology, Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ljubljana Medical Center, Zaloška 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - David Lukanović
- Department of Gynecology, Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ljubljana Medical Center, Zaloška 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +38-615-226-005
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Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination in Obstetrics and Gynecology: Addressing Concerns While Paving a Way Forward. Obstet Gynecol 2022; 139:479-480. [DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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38
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Carp-Veliscu A, Mehedintu C, Frincu F, Bratila E, Rasu S, Iordache I, Bordea A, Braga M. The Effects of SARS-CoV-2 Infection on Female Fertility: A Review of the Literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19020984. [PMID: 35055804 PMCID: PMC8775865 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
As the coronavirus pandemic is far from ending, more questions regarding the female reproductive system, particularly fertility issues, arise. The purpose of this paper is to bring light upon the possible link between COVID-19 and women’s reproductive health. This review emphasizes the effect of SARS-CoV-2 on the hormones, endometrium and menstrual cycle, ovarian reserve, follicular fluid, oocytes, and embryos. The results showed that endometrial samples did not express SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Regarding the menstrual cycle, there is a large range of alterations, but they were all reversible within the following months. The ovarian reserve was not significantly affected in patients recovering from both mild and severe infection in most cases, except one, where the levels of AMH were significantly lower and basal follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were increased. All COVID-19 recovered patients had positive levels of SARS-CoV-2 IgG in the follicular fluid. The amount of retrieved and mature oocytes and the fertilization rate were unharmed in three studies, except for one study, where the quantity of retrieved and mature oocytes was reduced in patients with higher levels of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The numbers of blastocysts, top-quality embryos, and euploid embryos were affected in most of the studies reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Carp-Veliscu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.C.-V.); (F.F.); (E.B.); (I.I.); (A.B.)
- Panait Sarbu Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 060251 Bucharest, Romania; (S.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Claudia Mehedintu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.C.-V.); (F.F.); (E.B.); (I.I.); (A.B.)
- Nicolae Malaxa Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 022441 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Francesca Frincu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.C.-V.); (F.F.); (E.B.); (I.I.); (A.B.)
- Nicolae Malaxa Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 022441 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Elvira Bratila
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.C.-V.); (F.F.); (E.B.); (I.I.); (A.B.)
- Panait Sarbu Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 060251 Bucharest, Romania; (S.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Simona Rasu
- Panait Sarbu Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 060251 Bucharest, Romania; (S.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Ioana Iordache
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.C.-V.); (F.F.); (E.B.); (I.I.); (A.B.)
- Panait Sarbu Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 060251 Bucharest, Romania; (S.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Alina Bordea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.C.-V.); (F.F.); (E.B.); (I.I.); (A.B.)
- Panait Sarbu Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 060251 Bucharest, Romania; (S.R.); (M.B.)
| | - Mihaela Braga
- Panait Sarbu Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 060251 Bucharest, Romania; (S.R.); (M.B.)
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Trogstad L, Juvet L, Feiring B, Blix K. Covid-19 vaccines and menstrual changes. BMJ MEDICINE 2022; 1:e000357. [PMID: 36936587 PMCID: PMC9951358 DOI: 10.1136/bmjmed-2022-000357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lene Juvet
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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40
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Trujillo MV, Rungvivatjarus T, Klein KO. Incidence of central precocious puberty more than doubled during COVID-19 pandemic: Single-center retrospective review in the United States. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:1007730. [PMID: 36533230 PMCID: PMC9748187 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1007730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY The frequency of new visits for precocious puberty increased during the Covid-19 pandemic in the pediatric endocrinology clinic at Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego, CA, US. A few recent studies have shown an increase in the frequency of Central Precocious Puberty (CPP) in other centers during this pandemic. This study evaluated the change in incidence of new CPP cases requiring treatment with GnRH agonist (GnRHa) at Rady Children's Hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic and compared it to pre-pandemic years. METHODS Data were reviewed retrospectively to compare the number of visits of children newly diagnosed with CPP treated with GnRHa during the Covid-19 pandemic (5/2020-4/2021) and before the pandemic (5/2018-4/2019). Clinical and bone maturation data were evaluated as well as differences in timing from diagnosis to onset of treatment. The incidence of CPP requiring treatment for 5 years prior to the pandemic was also reviewed to evaluate for trends over time. RESULTS A total of 92 subjects were included. During pre-Covid year, 28 children (1 boy, 27 girls) were treated with GnRHa for CPP out of 2,340 new endocrinology visits (1.2% of patients seen). During Covid-19 year, 64 children (7 boys, 57 girls) were treated out of 2,261 new visits (2.8%). The incidence of new CPP cases requiring GnRHa during the pandemic more than doubled compared to pre-pandemic. Age at onset of treatment, degree of bone age (BA) advancement, time from diagnosis to onset of treatment, and changes in BMI during the pandemic were not different from pre-pandemic. CONCLUSION CPP cases requiring GnRHa treatment significantly increased during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic. This was not related to increased BMI or delay in onset of treatment. Age at diagnosis, degree of bone age advancement, and time from diagnosis to onset of treatment were all similar during the first year of the pandemic compared to the prior year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Vargas Trujillo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Tiranun Rungvivatjarus
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Karen O Klein
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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41
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Marinelli S, Cucinella G, Basile G. COVID-19 and female fertility: the flaws of Italian Law 40/2004 on assisted procreation in pandemic times. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2022; 93:e2022316. [PMID: 36300206 PMCID: PMC9686175 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v93i5.13765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM SARS-CoV-2 has infected over 614 million people worldwide, killing more than 6.5 million. COVID-19 impact on fertility may have far-reaching ramifications, considering that only in Italy, over 20 million people have been infected, many more considering unconfirmed cases. METHODS The authors aimed to outline the repercussions of COVID-19 on female reproductive capabilities, through an analysis of underlying mechanisms and dynamics liable to cause long-term COVID-19 complications and sequelae, including direct virus-induced tissue damage. RESULTS The entry receptor for SARS-CoV-2, Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) can be found in several tissues and organs within the human body, including ovaries, oocytes and placenta. In order to assess the fertility-damaging potential of the disease, it is necessary to clarify highly complex mechanisms such as the ovarian renin-angiotensin system (OVRAS) affecting ovarian physiology and dysfunction. COVID-19 and its potential to undermine the fertility prospects of millions cannot be underestimated. It is therefore essential for lawmakers to solve inconsistencies such as those in Italy's Law 40/2004, which has been all but dismantled by Constitutional Court and European Court of Human Rights rulings, and cannot therefore offer a sufficient degree of certainty and reliability. CONCLUSIONS When crafting novel, updated standards, norms and regulations to govern access to medically-assisted procreation, national leaders need to take into account the grave threat to fertility in a country such as Italy, which already has one of the world's lowest birth rates, posed by COVID-19 in light of currently available research findings outlining its impact on reproductive capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gaspare Cucinella
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IVF UNIT Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy
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Cherenack EM, Salazar AS, Nogueira NF, Raccamarich P, Rodriguez VJ, Mantero AM, Marsh A, Gerard S, Maddalon M, Jones DL, Klatt NR, Alcaide ML. Infection with SARS-CoV-2 is associated with menstrual irregularities among women of reproductive age. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276131. [PMID: 36288342 PMCID: PMC9604006 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biological and psychological mechanisms may be responsible for menstrual irregularities occurring among women during the COVID-19 pandemic. STUDY DESIGN From January 2019 to September 2021, women (18- to 45-years-old and not using hormonal contraception) were recruited in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Cross-sectional, self-report surveys collected data on menstrual irregularities, COVID-19 vaccination, stress, depression, and loneliness. A EUA approved rapid test assay using whole blood measured SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests described menstrual irregularities among women recruited before versus after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and with detectable versus undetectable SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. A logistic regression examined the relationship between the presence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies and menstrual irregularities controlling for age, stress, depression, and loneliness. RESULTS Among 182 women enrolled, 73 were enrolled after pandemic onset, and 36 provided vaccination data. Having detectable SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies was associated with a higher percentage of menstrual irregularities among unvaccinated women (0% vs. 39%, p = .026) and among all women regardless of vaccination status (31% vs. 5%; p = .005). Adjusting for age and psychological variables, the odds of menstrual irregularities were 7.03 times (95% CI [1.39, 35.60]; p = .019) higher among women with detectable antibodies compared to women without detectable antibodies. Neither enrollment date, age, nor psychological factors were associated to menstrual irregularities. CONCLUSIONS Biological mechanisms related to SARS-CoV-2 infection may be responsible for irregular menstruation and should be further examined to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M. Cherenack
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Ana S. Salazar
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Nicholas F. Nogueira
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Patricia Raccamarich
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Violeta J. Rodriguez
- Department of Psychology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Alejandro M. Mantero
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Allison Marsh
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Sophia Gerard
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Marissa Maddalon
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Deborah L. Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Nichole R. Klatt
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Maria L. Alcaide
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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43
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Chao MJ, Menon C, Elgendi M. Effect of COVID-19 vaccination on the menstrual cycle. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1065421. [PMID: 36590952 PMCID: PMC9802578 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1065421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous anecdotal accounts and qualitative research studies have reported on post-vaccination menstrual irregularities in women of reproductive age. However, none have quantified the impact. This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis to quantify and characterize the menstrual irregularities associated with vaccination for women of reproductive age. A search on July 20, 2022, retrieved articles published between December 1, 2019, and July 1, 2022, from MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science. The included articles were studies with full texts written in English that reported on menstrual irregularities for vaccinated vs. unvaccinated women of reproductive age. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Study Quality Assessment Tool for Observation Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. Four observational studies were included. Review Manager was used to generating a forest plot with odds ratios (ORs) at the 95% confidence interval (CI), finding statistically significant associations between vaccination and menstrual irregularities for 25,054 women of reproductive age (OR = 1.91, CI: 1.76-2.07) with a significant overall effect of the mean (Z = 16.01, p < 0.0001). The studies were heterogeneous with significant dispersion of values (χ2 = 195.10 at df = 3, p < 0.00001, I 2 = 98%). The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis are limited by the availability of quantitative data. The results have implications for treating women of reproductive age with menstrual irregularities and informing them about the potential side effects of vaccinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Jung Chao
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Carlo Menon
- Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Elgendi
- Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Barabás K, Makkai B, Farkas N, Horváth HR, Nagy Z, Váradi K, Zelena D. Influence of COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination on the menstrual cycle: A retrospective study in Hungary. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:974788. [PMID: 36387878 PMCID: PMC9646704 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.974788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Observations of women and clinicians indicated that the prevalence of menstrual cycle problems has escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it was not clear whether the observed menstrual cycle changes were related to vaccination, the disease itself or the COVID-19 pandemic-induced psychological alterations. To systematically analyze this question, we conducted a human online survey in women aged between 18 and 65 in Hungary. The menstrual cycle of 1563 individuals were analyzed in our study in relation to the COVID-19 vaccination, the COVID-19 infection, the pandemic itself and the mental health. We found no association between the COVID-19 vaccination, the vaccine types or the COVID-19 infection and the menstrual cycle changes. We also evaluated the menstrual cycle alterations focusing on three parameters of the menstrual cycle including the cycle length, the menses length and the cycle regularity in three pandemic phases: the pre-peak, the peak and the post-peak period in Hungary. Our finding was that the length of the menstrual cycle did not change in any of the periods. However, the menses length increased, while the regularity of the menstrual cycle decreased significantly during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic when comparing to the pre- and post-peak periods. In addition, we exhibited that the length and the regularity of the menstrual cycle both correlated with the severity of depression during the post-peak period, therefore we concluded that the reported menstrual cycle abnormalities during the peak of COVID-19 in Hungary might be the result of elevated depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Barabás
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Bernadett Makkai
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Nelli Farkas
- Institute of Bioanalysis, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Hanga Réka Horváth
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsanna Nagy
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Kata Váradi
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dóra Zelena
- Institute of Physiology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
- Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Dóra Zelena,
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