The scariest thing about catching the COVID-19 infection happens to be the fact that there is still so much that remains to be known about it. Scientists and medical experts around the world are still studying the coronavirus. Every day we read something new about its impact and its potential to harm the human body. Naturally, the paranoia is next level. My family, for instance, has banned eggs indefinitely. ‘Who knows if the virus is also impacting animals and poultry,’ my mom says.
Well, she isn’t exactly wrong. She has had her share of a harrowing COVID-19 infection to back her current anxiety. When all of us contracted the virus in 2020, my mom had it worse. She had breathing issues for nights and had the heaviest menstruation cycle of her lifetime in the days that followed. She is currently on a menopausal transition and the heavy flow scared the hell out of her.
But I am sure that she isn’t the only person who experienced menstrual difficulties after her COVID-19 diagnosis. It’s just that amid all the chaos and misinformation, we haven’t discussed it enough which is honestly sad. When it comes to the conversation on the impact of COVID-19 on women’s menstrual health, there is obviously a huge gap. We recently reached out to gynecologist and endoscopic surgeon, Dr. Anjali Kumar of maitriwoman to bridge this gap. We spoke to her about the impact of COVID-19 infection on the menstruation cycle and ways to cope with the issues.
Impact Of COVID-19 Infection On Menstrual Cycle
From digestive problems to a comprised stamina, COVID-19 can have multifold effects on our body. An irregular menstrual cycle happens to be one of them. Here’s everything that you need to know about the impact of a COVID-19 infection on your periods:
How does COVID-19 Impact Your Menstruation Cycle?
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As per Dr. Anjali, a lot of women have been complaining of irregular periods post COVID-19 infection. She explains, “We need to understand that COVID-19 infection is a big physical, mental and emotional stress and any kind of stress in the body can disturb the female hormones thereby disturbing the menstruation cycle.” However, she also adds that most of these side effects generally last for two-three cycles only. “COVID-19 induced menstrual side effects are usually very very short-lived. They may just last for a couple of cycles and the effects are not likely to be long-term,” adds the doctor.
Common Complaints
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According to Dr. Anjali, the most common COVID-19 side effects on periods include delayed cycles, heavy flow, and sometimes even scanty or missed periods. She further insists that we should not just dismiss any of these problems without consulting an expert. “We have to understand that any kind of these side effects needs to be investigated because the reason can be something else also. Just because the woman has had COVID-19 does not mean that it’s the culprit behind a comprised cycle. She could be having some other pathological issues which need to be investigated. So basically any menstrual irregularity needs to be investigated by a gynaecologist properly,” she adds.
Menstrual Care Post COVID-19 Infection: Things to Remember
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As already established–yes, you can face menstrual irregularities post COVID-19 infection. Here are Dr Anjali’s tips on dealing with these irregularities:
See An Expert: In case, the irregularities are severe or if they persist, you should immediately see a gynecologist to make sure that there isn’t any other problem. A thorough examination must be done to rule out any serious problems.
Eat Well: After you have tested negative make sure that your diet is very nutritious, well balanced and adequate.
Rest Well: It is very important that you are resting well for a quick recovery from COVID-19. Once again remember, that COVID-19 infection can have an impact across all the systems in the body. Make sure that you are giving the body enough time to recuperate itself.
Take Care of Your Mental Health: Needless to say, work on your mental and emotional health also. It is very important for you to be stress-free to get your menstrual cycle back on track.
Lastly, make sure that you get vaccinated three months after your COVID-19 infection to protect yourself from all its side effects.
Featured Image: Instagram
