Impact of coronavirus infection on the female reproductive system: A literature review

Authors

  • S.E. Erkenova КМУ ВШОЗ
  • Sh.M. Moiynbayeva
  • A.M. Auezova
  • A.A. Kauysheva
  • Sh.K. Karibayeva
  • G.G. Bedelbayeva
  • A.S. Nurmatova
  • M.A. Kulmaganbetov

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37800/RM.2.2023.46-52

Keywords:

COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, female reproductive system, disruptions in the menstrual cycle, fertility, pregnancy complications

Abstract

Relevance: The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has become a global crisis in the healthcare system. This virus primarily attacks the respiratory system, causing pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and, in severe cases, fatality. However, emerging evidence suggests the potential impact of COVID-19 infection on other human systems, including the female reproductive system.

The study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the effects of COVID-19 on women’s reproductive health. The review examines existing literature on various aspects, including fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and gynecological health.

Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases to identify relevant articles on the topic published until January 2023. The search queries included a combination of the following keywords: “COVID-19”, “SARS-CoV-2”, “female reproductive system,” “menstrual cycle,” “pregnancy,” and “fertility.”

Results: The findings of our review indicate that SARS-CoV-2 can have various effects on the female reproductive system. One of the most frequently reported effects is disturbances in the menstrual cycle, including changes in cycle length, duration, and intensity of bleeding. Furthermore, COVID-19 may increase the risk of pregnancy complications, including preterm birth, preeclampsia, and fetal distress.

Conclusion: Existing studies indicate that COVID-19 can significantly impact the female reproductive system, including disruptions in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy complications. However, the precise mechanisms by which the virus affects the reproductive system remain unclear. Further research is needed to gain a deeper understanding of these mechanisms.

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Published

2023-05-29

How to Cite

[1]
Erkenova С. , Moiynbayeva Ш. , Auezova А. , Kauysheva А. , Karibayeva Ш. , Bedelbayeva Г. , Nurmatova А. and Kulmaganbetov М. 2023. Impact of coronavirus infection on the female reproductive system: A literature review. Reproductive Medicine (Central Asia). 2 (55) (May 2023), 46–52. DOI:https://doi.org/10.37800/RM.2.2023.46-52.

Issue

No. 2 (55) (2023): Reproductive medicine

Section

Статьи

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