Have you received the vaccination for the COVID-19, the coronavirus that first appeared in late 2019 and is still a wide-spreading pandemic? Due to how COVID is still very much relevant, there is also much concern about the effects of receiving the vaccination, now including how COVID affects women’s periods.
We still see the reports of vaccinated individuals being diagnosed with COVID and some, unfortunately, passing away in some cases after receiving the vaccination.
Such reports have caused concern with a significant number of individuals still choosing to not be vaccinated.
The concerns have ranged from whether the vaccination decreases the risk of COVID, and if it does not, why get the vaccination if it does not prevent COVID?
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For those who have been vaccinated, the side effects from the vaccine have been reported more by women, and this may be due to the connection between the vaccine and changes in menstrual cycles.
There are several reports of women who have received the vaccination sharing various changes in their periods and associated symptoms, from earlier start dates to more serious incidents of menstrual cramps and abdominal pain.
In about 25% of cases, according to experts, being diagnosed with COVID can interfere with women’s menstrual cycles, so the body’s immune response to the infection or the vaccine can possibly cause side effects. Symptoms can include headaches and severe nausea.
Other reported side effects:
- Irregular Period after COVID vaccine
- Late period after COVID vaccine
- Missed or No Period after COVID vaccine
- Spotting after COVID vaccine
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The changes in menstrual cycles have mainly been short-lived but still of great concern for women, particularly those who have concerns about possible fertility issues.
Thus far, there have not been any connections found between the COVID vaccination and fertility.
The main takeaway from experts is that the benefits of being vaccinated still outweigh the possible risks and side effects, as having COVID-19 can be worse than the menstrual changes, irregularities, and symptoms.
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Previously not monitored, the connection between COVID and menstrual changes will now be monitored regularly in research.
The National Institutes of Health will use $1.6M in funding to study the potential links between COVID and menstrual changes, moving women’s and menstrual health to the forefront.
If you received the vaccine and you are experiencing persistent symptoms or extreme changes to your period, please seek medical attention immediately, especially if the bleeding is too heavy and/or there is unusual bleeding or new bleeding.
This is particularly advised for postmenopausal women or trans individuals.
