Low Anti-Mullerian Hormone Levels Are Associated with the Severity of Anxiety Experienced by Healthcare Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The objective of this study is to investigate a possible correlation between anxiety status and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels among healthcare professionals who provide medical care directly to COVID-19-positive patients during the recent pandemic. Fifty-two healthcare professionals (nurses, midwives, and residents) who provide medical care directly to COVID-19-positive patients in inpatient clinics or intensive care units were enrolled in this study. Serum AMH levels were analyzed to reflect ovarian reserve. The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S and STAI-T, respectively) were completed by participants to assess their anxiety status. A linear regression model with participant age as the constant variable was applied to analyze the relationship between inventory scale scores and AMH levels. P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The mean AMH value was significantly lower for the participants in the moderate/severe anxiety group compared to the minimal/mild anxiety group (p = 0.007). A linear regression analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between AMH levels and both BAI (B = −0.030, standard error = 0.010, p = 0.004) and STAI-S and STAI-T scores when age was controlled (both p = 0.003). The severity of anxiety experienced during the recent COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare professionals, who provide medical care directly to COVID-19-positive patients, is found to be related to low AMH levels.

COVID-19 disease does not cause ovarian injury in women of reproductive age: an observational before-and-after COVID-19 study

“…In addition, recent studies were reported that, low serum AMH levels were associated with psychological stress and severity of anxiety (Yeğin et al, 2021). Menstruation, which is arranged by the HPO axis, may be easily disarranged by psychological stress, infection disease, drugs and organ dysfunctions (Yeğin et al, 2021, Kala et al, 2016.…”

“…In addition, recent studies were reported that, low serum AMH levels were associated with psychological stress and severity of anxiety (Yeğin et al, 2021). Menstruation, which is arranged by the HPO axis, may be easily disarranged by psychological stress, infection disease, drugs and organ dysfunctions (Yeğin et al, 2021, Kala et al, 2016. Appropriately, in our study results, it was found that the number of women with irregular menstruation and amenorrhea slightly increased after COVID-19 illness; however, the study patients had a significant reduction in menstrual volume during 3 months following illness.…”

Impact of prior coronavirus disease 2019 infection in females on assisted reproductive outcomes: A systematic review with meta‐analysis

“…For infertile women who recovered from COVID‐19, the present finding could provide real‐world evidence for their medical consultations on subsequent ART success. Since these women are often confronted with higher levels of anxiety and depression, 46 our reassuring data may also help to reduce the psychiatric stress and further protect them from potential negative consequences 47–49 . Of note, this study did not preclude the importance of timely COVID‐19 vaccination, which has shown its effectiveness in reducing morbidity and mortality as well as safety for assisted reproductive outcomes 50,51 …”

The Multi-faceted Effects of COVID-19 on Female Reproductive Health: An Updated Narrative Review

“…Low serum levels of AMH have also been connected to psychological stress and anxiety intensity. Additionally, low plasma AMH measures were also related to emotional stress and the severity of anxiety [48]. Therefore, psychological counseling should always be offered especially during this difficult period of the pandemic.…”