Survey study, 2026
Does COVID-19 vaccination cause menstrual cycle changes?
Yes, COVID-19 vaccination is associated with changes in PMS symptoms and cycle duration, especially Moderna affecting pain severity. However, this is based on a survey with no control group, so we cannot be certain vaccination directly caused the changes.
What they did
Cross-sectional survey of 700 women in Saudi Arabia using a self-administered questionnaire covering demographics, medical history, vaccination type, and menstrual changes. Statistical analysis used to identify associations.
What they found
Significant changes in PMS symptoms occurred after vaccine doses 1 and 2 (P=0.010, P=0.020) and cycle duration changed (P=0.024). Moderna vaccine significantly affected pain severity (P=0.007), unlike Pfizer or AstraZeneca. Flow and cramps were unaffected. Age, BMI, and employment predicted changes in cycle duration.
What it means for you
Vaccination appears linked to changes in PMS and cycle length, with Moderna showing the strongest effect on pain. The main limitation is this is one survey from one region with no control group, so we cannot prove vaccination caused the changes. Results need confirmation in larger controlled studies.
700
women surveyed
P=0.010
PMS change with vaccine dose 1
P=0.007
Moderna vaccine effect on pain severity
About the study
- Original title
- COVID-19 Vaccination and Menstrual Cycle Changes: Predictive Factors Among Reproductive-Aged Women in Saudi Arabia
- Authors
- Howeida Hassan Abusalih, Leen Al-Anazi, Aljouharah Al-Harbi et al.
- Journal
- Majmaah Journal of Health Sciences
- Year
- 2026
- Study design
- Survey study
- Participants
- 700
- What was tested
- COVID-19 vaccination (Moderna, Pfizer, or AstraZeneca)
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.5455/mjhs.2026.03.004
Topics
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