When an Alaskan woman from rugged interiors contracted the coronavirus infection at her office in Fairbanks, the health experts started investigating how the virus reached there. They found that the lady had pre-existing medical conditions and didn’t receive her vaccine doses. She needed hospitalization and didn’t recover fast. States like Alaska and others have gathered all types of details about infected people to understand how the virus evolves and causes deaths every day despite preventative measures. Unfortunately, all the information related to women in Fairbanks and millions of COVID-19 cases doesn’t get to the epidemiologists at the state and federal levels. The pandemic has claimed over one million lives in America, but the information system in the healthcare field remains fragmented.
Amidst all this, public opinions have also been evolving, which is another exciting area to observe. For example, if you explore MyBioSource’s poll around COVID-19, you will realize that 45% of survey participants said that the virus infection was the top concern in the country in 2020. Down the road, this percentage dwindled to a meager 3%. Nevertheless, whether the virus is a significant threat, one cannot stop gathering awareness about it. In this respect, it can be wise to learn about its impact on women’s health.
The impact of the COVID-19 vaccine on female health
The viral infection’s mental and physical health consequences are no more a secret or mystery. Anxiety, depression, obesity, neurological disorders, and others are regular occurrences. However, if you specifically study the coronavirus vaccine’s influence on ladies, you will know there can be some side effects. For example, women can suffer from longer menstrual cycles. Although it is unclear how vaccines interfere with women’s health in this aspect, there is an understanding that inflammatory reactions caused briefly by the vaccines can be the culprit. Oregon Health & Science University’s team researched 5k unvaccinated and 20k vaccinated people to probe what happens after vaccination. The study will likely cover the effects of booster shots also.
The impact of COVID-19 on pregnant ladies
The University of Washington Medicine’s research on coronavirus and pregnancy has revealed some surprising details. The study involved 140 pregnant females who contracted the infection. The findings suggest that the virus affects the immune response of the placenta and its ability to combat other viruses. Do you know what a placenta is? It’s a temporary organ that forms in pregnant ladies. It helps the growing baby with nutrients and oxygen. It also helpsthe baby’s bloodbecome clean by eliminating waste matters. The placenta or cord-like structurelinks theuterus wall and the baby’s umbilical cord. Some scientists believe this organ loses its ability to fight the new virus if it becomes exhausted.
Then, there was a perception that the virus may not harm the growing fetus because very few newborns were infected. But the latest reports hint at something else. However, a lack of research in this area prevents one from gaining insights.But scientists say these revelations emphasize a need to study this aspect more for a better understanding.
COVID-19 risks in young females
Common factors linking binge drinking with coronavirus infection risks in women include a lack of attention to preventive measures during an inebriated state. One of the studies shows that 20-something women who drank a lot were more vulnerable to the virus, per Rutgers researchers. A group of scientists compared the women’s drinking habits during the pandemic vs. the pre-pandemic period. Their analysis focused on the pattern of consumption. They also considered factors like using e-cigarettes, cigarettes, cannabis, etc. According to them, women who consumed more than one substance faced COVID-induced psychological health challenges. The health leaders believe these women can do better with mental health support and guidance for substance use.
The pandemic effect on sportswomen
There doesn’t have to be doubt about coronavirus’s ill impact on people’s mental health. A survey of women sports participants found that most suffered from exhaustion, sleep problems, anxiety, hopelessness, and a sense of loss. 60% reported dealing with a sense of loneliness almost daily. 10% of women said they felt hopeless. And about 38% of athletic women admitted they are mentally exhausted. Interestingly, the scenario was a little different with student-athletes. About 47% of women from this group said they were able to balance their studies and extracurricular activities.
Women’s health doesn’t get as much priority, although things are slightly improving. But it’s crucial to keep oneself updated with the health challenges they face in this transitional world – from pandemic to post-pandemic. At the same time, they must pay more attention to themselves to ensure they get proper nourishment, exercise, sleep, and more. Well-curated lifestyle habits and a peaceful mind can be some of their best steps. So, don’t overlook your health needs, whether you had an infection or not. Make yourself your top priority.
