The Effect of COVID-19 Infections and Vaccination on Menstrual Cycle Symptoms in the South of Jordan: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Several recent studies and reports have highlighted the need for more evaluation of the impact of COVID-19 infections and vaccines on the reproductive system and menstruation. Methods: A cross-sectional survey utilizing face-to-face interviews from 1 October to 31 December 2021 was conducted in the city of Kerak in the southern part of Jordan. The study questionnaire assessed the impact of COVID-19 infection and vaccines on menstrual symptoms. It included sociodemographic characteristics, medical and reproductive history, the contraceptive method, MC status, previous medical and drug history, and the effect of infection and vaccination on the MC. Results: This study questionnaire was completed by 400 participants with a mean age of 32.1±12.6. Regarding the history of COVID-19 infections, 33.8% of the participants reported a history of confirmed COVID-19 infections. 77.8% of them do not report any menstrual changes following the infection, while the remaining 22.2% reported changes in menstruation. The most commonly reported post-COVID-19 symptoms were irregular MC (27.6%) and light MC (24.15) or dysmenorrhea (24.1%). Heavy menstruation was reported by 17.2% of participants post-COVID-19 infection. Two-thirds of study participants (66.6%) reported no changes in the MC following the COVID-19 vaccine. The most reported symptoms for those who experienced changes in the MC following the vaccination were irregular MC (13.1%), heavy menstruation (7%), and light menstruation (7%). Other reported symptoms were: dysmenorrhea (4.6%), intermenstrual bleeding (1.2%), and amenorrhoea (0.5%). Conclusion: This is the first published study from Jordan on the impact of COVID-19 infection and vaccine on menstrual symptoms. It revealed minor changes in the MC following COVID-19 infections and the COVID-19 vaccine. These findings are consistent with published reports. It is recommended that future clinical trials for new vaccines for women within childbearing age to include outcomes related to sex hormones and MC. Women should be encouraged to take the vaccines and to report symptoms for healthcare professionals for further assessment.