Since the COVID-19 vaccination drive began, several women are complaining of disrupted periods. Read to know all about the COVID-19 vaccine’s impact on the menstrual cycle.
COVID-19 vaccine’s impact and irregular menstrual cycle
The UK has a Yellow Card Scheme where people can report any side effects they face due to medications and vaccination. According to a new report from the data, over 30,00 women said their menstrual cycle was irregular or disrupted after getting the COVID-19 shot. According to Dr. Victorial Male, a reproductive immunologist at London’s Imperial College, further study is important even though these are safe and short-term changes. “Robust research into this possible adverse reaction remains critical to the overall success of the vaccination program. One important lesson is that the effects of medical interventions on menstruation should not be an afterthought in future research,” added Dr. Male.
In addition to this, the US National Institute of Health (NIH) is investing $1.67 million into new research. This study will help in knowing the COVID-19 vaccine’s impact on the menstrual cycle. “These rigorous scientific studies will improve our understanding of the potential effects of COVID-19 vaccines on menstruation, giving people who menstruate more information about what to expect after vaccination and potentially reducing vaccine hesitancy,” said Diana W. Bianchi, M.D. Bianchi is the director of the NIH’s Child Health and Human Development Institute.
How concerning is this?
According to experts, there is no need to be very concerned about changes in one’s menstrual cycle. Moreover, most of the post-vaccination changes go back to normal quite quickly. Moreover, the researchers investigate the severity and prevalence of changes in women after the COVID-19 vaccination.
The research will unravel the vaccine’s secrets by examining hormonal and immune characteristics. It will also counter factors like stress and environmental factors. After all, periods can be delayed or heavy due to immune responses.