Endocrine Abstracts

Background: Reproductive health is an integral part of a women’s general health and is influenced by various endogenous and exogenous factors.

Objectives: The aim was to detect the possible effects of COVID-19 on women’s reproductive health.

Methods: We created an anonymous survey about reproductive health and shared it with women of reproductive age. Regarding menstrual cycle characteristics all women used the smartphone application for period tracking.

Results: 205 women completed the survey. Based on inclusion, exclusion and complete data availability 162 surveys were taken into the final analysis. Mean age was 28.8 ± 9.5 years. 115 (71%) women reported previously being infected with COVID-19. 94 (81.7%) of these women reported having changes in their menstrual cycle (MC) afterwards (P < 0.0001) when compared to non-COVID19 participants. Women under the age of 30 who had a COVID-19 were more likely to have changes in their MC (P = 0.02) when compared to women older than 30. 42 (36.5%) women reported having heavier periods (P < 0.0001), 22 (19.1%) reported earlier periods (P = 0.04) and 23 (20%) women reported more pronounced premenstrual symptoms (P = 0.015). 62 (54%) women reported gaining weight during the pandemic, with a median of 4 kg. The main specific stressor was a difficulty accessing healthcare (30/26%) (P = 0.035). The age was the most significant predictor of changes in the MC (B=0.054, 95% CI B=1.004 - 1.109, P = 0.034).

Conclusions: According to our data COVID-19 leads to MC changes, especially in women under 30, such as heavier periods, shorter duration of MC and worsening of PMS. Other possible consequences remain yet to be elucidated.