Since the beginning of the pandemic, with each variant and post-vaccination, I have seen consistent disruptions to menstrual cycles and ovulation. Typically this has been three months of varied cycle lengths, delayed or absent ovulation, and changes to menstrual flow. Despite confirming this trend with colleagues across the country, I had to yet to come across research evaluating this effect until now.
Researchers at the Institute of Medical Technology in Baghdad, Iraq, have looked at the impact of Covid on fertility hormones, particularly FSH and LH (how hard the body is having to work to ovulate), AMH (egg quality and ovarian reserve) and prolactin (a hormone that promotes lactation and can block ovulation). The study looked at healthy non-vaccinated, healthy vaccinated, and Covid-infected women – finding significant increases in prolactin, FSH and LH, along with significant decreases in AMH amongst vaccinated and infected individuals.
The study was not able to determine the long-term impacts of these events; however, if my clinic observations are an indicator, three months may be a reasonable assumption for a return to normal.
This is certainly a step in the right direction in terms of being able to counsel female patients as to potential underlying causes of hormonal disruptions post-infection and post-vaccination.
I hope you have found this helpful, and do let me know if you have any questions!
If you are hungry for more evidence-based information for your fertility or pregnancy journey, visit www.myhealthypregnancyplan.com for free webinars and complete programs.
And if you are a care-provider looking for evidence-based resources for your fertility or pregnancy patients, please get in touch with us at support@myhealthypregnancyplan.com, or visit www.myhealthypregnancyplan.com/ce-courses-for-naturopathic-doctors.
In health,
Dr Jocelyn Land-Murphy, ND
Terra Life
Disclaimer: The information and content provided is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, nor is it intended to be a substitute therefore. Please consult the Disclaimer and Terms of Use for full details.
References:
Najeb, H.B. (2022). Effect of Covid-19 Vaccine on Women’s Fertility Hormones. Journal of Techniques.