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COVID-19: Effects Of The Pandemic On Women

May 17, 2021

COVID-19: Effects Of The Pandemic On Women
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The effects of gender during a crisis can never be ignored. In times of healthcare emergencies, it becomes pivotal to discuss and study how each gender is affected by the COVID-19 virus. In a country like India where the gender disparities are starker, the impact of the same is dire during a crisis like the one of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In most Indian families, the health of the female member is usually ignored or is considered at the end. They are usually left to tend to the health of the family members before considering theirs. This leads to a late diagnosis of the COVID-19 virus in them.

Fatality Rate In Males and Females

In a recent study on COVID-19 deaths in India, it was found that about 3.3% of all females contracting the COVID-19 infection in India were dying compared to 2.9% of all males. In the age group of females between 40-49, 3.2% of the females have died compared to 2.1% of all males. When considering the age group 5-19, only females have died.

While women have better immune defences due to hormones like estrogen, the mortality rate is a surprise. Researchers have attributed it majorly to the socio-economical status of women in the nation.

The lockdown has made the gender disparities even more clear. Females are having to bear the brunt of the work both at home and at work! This has led to increased stress and anxiety in women leading to depression. This has a direct negative impact on immunity, hence, making them susceptible to the COVID-19 virus.

Menstrual Cycle and COVID

Many females affected by the long term effects of COVID-19 have reported that it has impacts on their monthly cycles. Most of them have reported that ever since they had contracted the COVID-19 virus, they have been experiencing changes in their menstrual cycle. Many had reported irregular periods, unusual clotting of their period blood, worsened premenstrual syndrome or PMS. These changes, however, varied from person to person.

Many researchers have attributed the disruptions to the stress and anxiety of the COVID-19 pandemic. Not being given proper access to help for the disruptions is also adding to the stress.

Vaccination and Women

Things to remember about vaccination for COVID-19 when it comes to females and people who menstruate

  • It is completely safe to get inoculated on/before/after your period
  • The vaccine has no impact on the menstrual cycle
  • The vaccine does not have any impact on your fertility
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women can get the vaccine

Women can get the vaccine irrespective of where they are in their menstrual cycle. The vaccine has no impact on the menstrual cycle of the female body. Unlike various myths, the body is not at its lowest point with respect to immunity. Pregnant and breastfeeding people should consult their doctors and make an informed decision about vaccination against COVID-19.

Disclaimer: We recommend consulting a Doctor before taking any action based on the above shared information.


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