How is the COVID-19 pandemic affecting women's menstrual cycles and quality of life? A view from South Asia. (July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hashmi, Nida; Ullah, Irfan; Tariq, Syeda Rida; de Filippis, Renato; Orsolini, Laura; Pinto da Costa, Mariana; Virani, Sanya; Pereira-Sanchez, Victor
• Is Part Of: BJPsych advances. Volume 28:Number 4(2022)
• Page Start: 274
• Page End: 277
• Publication Date: 2022-07
• Subjects: COVID-19 -- global health -- menstruation -- mental health -- women's health; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1192/bja.2021.64
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2056-4678

Abstract

SUMMARY: The substantial strain that women are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic can affect their menstrual cycle and further impair their quality of life. In low- and middle-income countries, this strain is exacerbated by: cultural taboos and poor education related to menstruation; 'period poverty'; unavailability of menstrual hygiene products; and poor hygiene facilities. We suggest actions that governments, healthcare professionals and individuals can take to address these factors and minimise the psychological impact of COVID-19 on women's physical and mental health.