COVID-19 stress has caused ‘alarming’ changes in menstrual cycles, study shows

A US study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh discovered women with high stress levels related to COVID-19, are twice as likely to experience changes in their menstrual cycle.  

The university’s school of medicine developed a survey that included a COVID-19 stress scale and self-reported menstrual cycle changes between March 2020 and May 2021. The institution surveyed women aged between 18-45 who were not taking hormonal birth control.

354 women completed the project and 10.5% reported high stress levels.

Lead author of the study, Martina Anto-Ocrah Ph.D, said: ‘During the pandemic, women’s roles were redefined, and, as a society, we took steps back in terms of gender equity.

‘Women often shouldered the brunt of childcare and household tasks, and they found changes to daily activities and the risk of COVID-19 infection more stressful than men.’

Around 12% of participants reported changes in their menstrual cycle features, including spotting between bleeding, cycle duration and heavier flows, which researchers called ‘alarming’.

‘The menstrual cycle is an indicator of women’s overall wellbeing,’ said Martina Anto-Ocrah, Assistant Professor in the Division of General Internal Medicine at the Pitt School of Medicine. ‘Disruption to the menstrual cycle and fluctuating hormones can impact fertility, mental health, cardiovascular disease and other outcomes. 

‘Ultimately, these factors can also play into relationship dynamics, potentially compounding strain on relationships.’

As well as affecting women’s mental and physical health, heavier periods can also cause financial strain due to the cost of feminine hygiene products.

‘We know that the pandemic has had negative economic impacts for a lot of people,’ said Professor Anto-Ocrah. ‘If changes to your flow during a time of economic distress increase period-related costs – or the ‘tampon tax’ – economically, it’s a double whammy.’

Professor Anto-Ocrah has said she hopes the study inspires more research on COVID-19 stress and women’s health on a global scale, including potential long-term effects on fertility, menopause transition and mental health.

This study was published in Obstetrics & Gynaecology.

Photo by Jonathan Borba