• Published on: Jul 14, 2021
  • 1 minute read
  • By: Global Covid Expert

Can Period Get Irregular Because Of COVID-19 ?

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We have heard many reported instances that after being vaccinated against COVID-19, many people had unusual symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, “COVID arm” and blood clots. All these symptoms can be quite concerning since it is unclear the near-term impact. The side effects reported are believed to be associated with our body’s immune response to the vaccine. It's important to look at the reports of altered menstrual cycles after vaccination?  

Currently is no concrete evidence that COVID-19 vaccines can have a direct effect on women’s menstrual cycles. The impact could be indirect as these changes may be associated with the body’s response to stress.   

Let's look at how menstrual cycles can be affected by the immune system in an indirect way.

When a woman is about to ovulate, her immune system ramps itself up to prevent any infectious agents from interfering with the fertilization and implantation of the egg. Once the egg is fertilized and implants, the immune system dampens to accept the pregnancy. The lining of the uterus also has immune cells, and those cells can be affected by hormonal changes. Uterine infections can also cause changes in a woman’s normal menstrual cycle. 

Hypothalamus in the brain is the hormonal control center that works in conjunction with the anterior pituitary gland. Emotional stress, physical stress, and chemical stress may affect the hormonal control center which can result in menstrual cycle changes.”   Chemical stress applies to medications that can alter your period.   

Women who are taking medications for seizure disorders, diabetes, thyroid conditions, hypertension, depression, or other conditions might notice irregularities with their menstrual cycles. These medications can interfere with the hormones that are responsible for menstruation.

When you experience period changes after being vaccinated for COVID-19 your healthcare provider can determine the best way to manage the disruption in your menstrual cycle. It is important to discuss any changes with your healthcare provider and best specialist doctor because they’ll be aware of what’s going on and you can work together to determine the best course of action. 

Chronic stress can also affect your body’s normal cortisol production rhythm. An overabundance of cortisol can affect your metabolism, which can lead to obesity. It can also lead to sleep disturbances as well as changes in menstruation.   

Women can do many things that may promote health are exercise, rest, and a healthy diet. 

Take note of the things which cause stress around you as lot of factors in our environment can add to our stress. These things can influence our diet, sleep schedule, and medication regimen.  

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Diabetes symptoms

Diabetes Symptoms in Men: Early Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health challenges worldwide, and men are particularly vulnerable to its long-term complications. In India, the burden of diabetes has increased sharply over the past two decades, driven by lifestyle changes, sedentary habits and dietary patterns. Despite this, many men remain unaware of early diabetes symptoms or delay medical consultation until complications develop.

Understanding diabetes symptoms in men is essential for early diagnosis, effective management and prevention of serious health consequences.

 

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels due to:

  • insufficient insulin production
     

  • ineffective insulin action
     

  • or both
     

The most common form affecting men is type 2 diabetes, which is strongly linked to lifestyle factors.

 

Why Men Are at Higher Risk

Several factors increase diabetes risk in men:

  • higher abdominal fat accumulation
     

  • smoking and alcohol consumption
     

  • irregular eating patterns
     

  • work-related stress
     

  • lower healthcare-seeking behaviour
     

According to Indian Council of Medical Research data, a significant proportion of men remain undiagnosed until advanced stages.

 

Early Diabetes Symptoms in Men

Frequent Urination

Excess sugar in the blood causes kidneys to work harder, leading to increased urination, especially at night.

 

Excessive Thirst

Frequent urination leads to dehydration, causing constant thirst.

 

Fatigue and Weakness

Cells cannot utilise glucose efficiently, resulting in low energy levels and persistent tiredness.

 

Unexplained Weight Changes

Men may experience unexplained weight loss despite normal or increased appetite.

 

Increased Hunger

Insulin resistance prevents glucose from entering cells, triggering frequent hunger.

 

Diabetes Symptoms Unique or Commonly Seen in Men

Erectile Dysfunction

Diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves, leading to erectile dysfunction.

Studies show a strong association between diabetes and male sexual health problems.

 

Reduced Testosterone Levels

Men with diabetes often have lower testosterone, affecting libido, muscle mass and mood.

 

Decreased Muscle Strength

Poor glucose utilisation affects muscle health and physical stamina.

 

Skin and Infection-Related Symptoms

Slow-Healing Wounds

High blood sugar impairs wound healing, increasing infection risk.

 

Frequent Infections

Men with diabetes are more prone to:

  • skin infections
     

  • urinary tract infections
     

  • fungal infections
     

 

Vision and Nerve Symptoms

Blurred Vision

Fluctuating blood sugar affects eye lenses, causing blurred vision.

 

Tingling or Numbness

Nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy, causes tingling or numbness in hands and feet.

 

Why Diabetes Symptoms Are Often Ignored by Men

Many men dismiss symptoms as:

  • work-related fatigue
     

  • ageing
     

  • stress
     

This delay increases the risk of complications.

 

Long-Term Complications of Untreated Diabetes

If untreated, diabetes can lead to:

  • heart disease
     

  • kidney failure
     

  • nerve damage
     

  • vision loss
     

  • sexual dysfunction
     

According to WHO and Lancet studies, early detection significantly reduces complication risk.

 

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis allows:

  • better blood sugar control
     

  • lifestyle modification
     

  • prevention of organ damage
     

Routine screening is crucial, even in the absence of symptoms.

 

When Should Men Get Tested?

Men should consider testing if they:

  • are over 30 years old
     

  • have a family history of diabetes
     

  • are overweight
     

  • have a sedentary lifestyle
     

  • experience any warning signs
     

Annual screening is recommended for at-risk individuals.

 

Managing Diabetes After Diagnosis

Effective management includes:

  • healthy diet
     

  • regular physical activity
     

  • weight control
     

  • stress management
     

  • medical treatment as advised
     

Early management improves quality of life.

 

Role of Preventive Healthcare

Preventive healthcare focuses on:

  • early screening
     

  • lifestyle intervention
     

  • regular follow-up
     

According to NITI Aayog, preventive strategies are essential to control India’s diabetes burden.

 

Mental Health and Diabetes in Men

Diabetes can affect mental wellbeing, leading to:

  • stress
     

  • anxiety
     

  • depression
     

Addressing emotional health improves diabetes outcomes.

 

Breaking the Stigma Around Men’s Health

Men often avoid seeking help due to stigma.

Promoting awareness helps:

  • normalise health conversations
     

  • encourage timely medical care
     

  • reduce preventable complications
     

 

Conclusion

Diabetes symptoms in men often develop gradually and may go unnoticed for years. Frequent urination, fatigue, unexplained weight changes and sexual health issues should never be ignored. Early diagnosis and timely management significantly reduce the risk of serious complications and improve long-term health outcomes. Awareness, routine screening and proactive healthcare are essential steps for men to protect their health and wellbeing in an era of rising lifestyle diseases.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Diabetes Epidemiology and Risk Studies
  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Diabetes Prevention and Management Guidelines
  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Diabetes Prevalence in Men
  • Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology – Male-Specific Diabetes Outcomes
  • NITI Aayog – Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Reports
  • Statista – Global Diabetes Trends and Gender Differences

 

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