Periods Lasting Over 8 Days? COVID Could Be the Cause
If you’ve noticed heavy periods lasting over 8 days, it may not just be a random shift in your cycle. A new study published in Nature Communications has found that women living with long COVID are significantly more likely to experience prolonged and heavier menstrual bleeding.
Long COVID refers to a group of symptoms that persist for weeks, months, or even years after a COVID-19 infection. While fatigue, brain fog, and breathing difficulties are commonly reported, researchers are now uncovering their impact on menstrual health as well.
What the study revealed
The research team observed that women with long COVID were twice as likely to have menstrual bleeding extend beyond eight days compared to those who never had COVID. In addition to longer periods, women also reported heavier flow and bleeding between cycles, a pattern doctors classify as abnormal uterine bleeding.
This highlights that menstrual changes may be an overlooked sign of long COVID, and not simply a temporary hormonal fluctuation.
Why does long COVID affect periods?
The researchers suggest that the virus may leave lasting effects on hormone activity and inflammation in the body. Here’s what they found:
- Hormonal disruption: The uterus in women with long COVID showed reduced sensitivity to progesterone, a hormone crucial for regulating the menstrual cycle.
- Increased inflammation: Signs of inflammation were present in the uterine lining, making bleeding heavier and more prolonged.
- Possible androgen changes: Elevated male hormones (androgens) may also play a role in disrupting the balance of female reproductive hormones.
Interestingly, ovarian function, including fertility, did not appear to be directly impaired. This means that while cycles may be longer and heavier, overall reproductive capacity remains intact.
Why this matters for women’s health
These findings expand our understanding of long COVID beyond the well-known symptoms. They show that heavy periods lasting over 8 days may also be a part of the syndrome, which could affect women’s daily life and overall well-being.
Doctors recommend that women who notice persistent changes in their menstrual cycle, especially unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding, seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can help rule out other causes, such as fibroids, thyroid issues, or clotting disorders, and guide treatment to restore more regular cycles.
Conclusion
If your period suddenly becomes much heavier or lasts longer than a week after a COVID-19 infection, it may be linked to long COVID. While fertility is not directly affected, the hormonal and inflammatory changes in the uterus can disrupt menstrual patterns. Speaking with a gynaecologist can help you understand the cause and manage symptoms effectively.
Source:Â Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 22 September 2025
- 13:00
