
Women are significantly more likely than men to develop long COVID, with the greatest risk among those aged 40 to 54, according to a new study funded by the National Institutes of Health. The findings highlight how long COVID impacts women differently, with symptoms often tied to hormonal fluctuations, menopause, and pregnancy.
Women 31% More Likely to Develop Long COVID
The study analysed data from over 12,000 adults, tracking their health for at least six months after a COVID-19 infection. Researchers found that women were 31% more likely than men to develop long COVID, with midlife women facing an even greater risk.
Women aged 40 to 54 had a 45% higher risk than men in the same age group.
Women over 55 were 34% more likely to develop long COVID than their male counterparts.
Risk factors also included pregnancy and menopausal status, suggesting a connection between long COVID and hormonal changes.
How Symptoms Differ Between Women and Men
Long COVID presents differently in men and women. While symptoms such as fatigue and brain fog are common across both sexes, women tend to experience:
Gastrointestinal issues
Hair loss
Dry eyes
In contrast, men with long COVID were more likely to report:
Changes in libido
Depression
The Role of Hormones in Long COVID
Researchers believe that sex hormones play a key role in these differences. Testosterone levels were found to be lower in women with long COVID, and this decrease was identified as a top predictor of symptom severity. The pituitary gland, which regulates reproductive hormones, may also be affected, disrupting menstrual cycles and overall hormone balance.
“This research suggests that understanding hormonal influences could be critical in developing treatments for long COVID,” says Dr. Dimpy Shah, the study’s lead author.
The Urgent Need for More Research
Despite growing awareness of long COVID, there is still no cure. Scientists are pushing for more studies to examine the biological differences that influence how men and women experience post-viral illnesses.
“Long COVID is now widely recognised as a real and debilitating condition, but we still have much to learn about its causes and treatments,” says Dr. Linda Geng, co-director of the Stanford Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome Clinic.
As research continues, experts emphasise the importance of recognising the unique challenges women face with long COVID to improve diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, recovery.
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