Can Covid-19 Affect Your Period?

Can COVID-19 mess with your menstrual cycle? It's a question that the scientific community is still unraveling whilst discovering the mysteries of the virus, let's explore what we know so far about its potential impact on your monthly cycle.

My daughter just had a ten day long period, right after a bad winter bug. We put it down to her potentially having had coronavirus. I've had Covid three times now and my menstrual cycle length is disrupted each time. My period arrives early and tends to be heavier and longer.

I've taken to carrying period pads and reusable menstrual pants in a wet bag with me just in case I am caught out.

The illness is caused by a novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. The virus primarily attacks the respiratory system, but its impact extends beyond just the lungs. The body's immune response triggered by COVID-19, along with the stress it induces on the body, can disrupt various bodily functions, including hormonal balance.

The menstrual cycle is a complex interplay of hormones, controlled by the ovaries and pituitary gland. It typically lasts around 28 days, but variations are entirely normal. Factors like stress, changes in weight, and illness can influence this delicate dance of hormones.

Can COVID-19 Affect Your Period?

Yes, Research has shown that COVID-19 may affect your period temporarily, both in the length and volume of their period as a side effect. 

COVID-19 prompts the immune system to go into overdrive. While this is crucial for fighting off the virus, an imbalanced immune response may inadvertently affect other bodily functions, including the regulation of hormones involved in the menstrual cycle.

While there isn't a wealth of concrete evidence on the direct relationship between contracting COVID-19 and menstrual changes, some reports and studies have suggested a potential link. However, it's essential to approach these findings with caution, as the scientific community is still exploring the long-term effects of the virus.

Can the COVID-19 Vaccine Affect Your Period?

There is no official research to suggest that the Covid vaccine causes changes in menstruation. However, anecdotal reports have described irregular or heavier periods after receiving the vaccination.

The Medicines and Health Care Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) had 34,633 reports of menstrual and vaginal bleeding reactions in relation to a COVID-19 vaccine in Great Britain between Dec '20 and Sep '21. To put this in perspective, there were approximately 47.8 million COVID-19 vaccine doses administered to women in the UK during that same time period so it is a relatively low number. The changes were temporary.

The COVID-19 vaccines currently in use do not contain live virus. Instead, they stimulate an immune response by teaching our bodies to recognise and fight the virus's spike protein. This involves the activation of the immune system, which may inadvertently affect other bodily functions.

What Can You Do?

If you've noticed changes in your menstrual period during the pandemic or in your period after vaccination, the first step is not to panic. Stressing over it might increase the issue. A Study published showed that any changes tend to settle back down within a month or two with no lasting affects.

Instead, focus on self-care and stress reduction techniques. Prioritise a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep – all crucial components for maintaining a stable menstrual cycle.

Period pants can be really helpful to wear if your cycle is disrupted by having COVID and you can't work out when your period will start. They can be worn anytime you think it is on it's way, then nothing is lost if it doesn't come, just wash them and wear again. Perfect if you have increased days of bleeding.

Consulting with a healthcare professional is always a good idea if you're experiencing persistent or severe changes in your period. They can help rule out any underlying issues and provide guidance on managing stress and maintaining overall well-being.

In the grand scheme of things, the impact of COVID-19 on menstrual cycles is still a bit of a mystery. While there's evidence suggesting a potential link, it's essential to approach the topic with an open mind and an awareness of the ongoing research.

Take care of yourself, listen to your body, and if in doubt, seek guidance from a healthcare professional. After all, navigating these uncharted waters requires a bit of extra self-love and understanding. Stay healthy! 

If you found this blog useful and want to read more - 

Do period pants feel wet?

How to track your menstrual cycle

Can your weight affect your period?

Can foods make your period heavier?

How to be more comfortable on your period

If you want to more information about switching to reusable pee and period products, feel free to contact the team. You can drop them a email or use the online chat. The team all use the products themselves and nothing is TMI. We all happily overshare our own experiences.

About the Author: Kirstin loves sea swimming and lives with her three children by the seaside. As part of Cheeky Wipes customer service team she spends most days talking about periods, poo, and pee.