In the UAE, a recent study conducted at Latifa Hospital in Dubai unveils a noteworthy observation – at least 10% of women in the country reported experiencing onset dysmenorrhea, or painful periods, after being infected with COVID-19. The study, titled ‘Effects of the Covid-19 Infection on Women’s Menstrual Cycle: A Retrospective Study at Latifa Hospital, Dubai,’ delves into the potential repercussions of the virus on women’s health. Involving 705 participants of diverse ethnic backgrounds, the research focuses on reproductive-aged women (18-55 years old) who had recovered from COVID-19 infection.
The study unveils a nuanced scenario. While 90% of participants reported no significant change in the painfulness of their periods post-COVID-19, 10% experienced increased discomfort. Similarly, 81% noted no alteration in menstrual flow rate, while 19% reported changes in this aspect. The research spotlights the understudied realm of menstrual changes after COVID-19 infection, emphasizing the limited literature on this subject.
Khaleej Times sought insights from doctors across the country to comprehend the impact of COVID-19 on women’s menstrual cycles. The findings suggest that the intensity of these changes correlates with the severity of the infection. Dr. Lara Koussayer, Specialist Obstetrics and Gynaecology at NMC Royal Women’s Hospital in Abu Dhabi notes that these changes often coincide with the severity of the infection and the need for hospitalization. Stress induced by severe illness is considered a contributing factor.
Observations during the first three months post-infection revealed irregularities in the menstrual cycle, such as delays or irregularities, which tended to improve over time. Changes in the duration and volume of bleeding were also noted. Dr. Kranti Lohokare Jadhav, a Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Aster Hospital Sharjah, points out that around 20% of COVID-19 patients exhibited prolonged menstrual cycles compared to their pre-illness norms.
Healthcare professionals emphasize the need to recognize that various factors can influence menstrual irregularities, and attributing them solely to COVID-19 might oversimplify the intricate interplay of health conditions and stress. Primary dysmenorrhea, associated with the normal menstrual process, can typically be managed with self-care measures. However, secondary dysmenorrhea, indicating severe pain or new symptoms, warrants medical attention and may be linked to underlying reproductive organ conditions like endometriosis or fibroids. The study highlights the multifaceted nature of the impact of COVID-19 on women’s health, urging a comprehensive approach to understanding and managing these changes.
