COVID-19 pandemic has been affecting different areas of our lives. After just over a year, there is still a lot to know about the long-term consequences of the infection. It is now known that sexual health has not been unhurt and the link between SARS-CoV-2 infection and erectile dysfunction is currently an important area of study. The effects of COVID-19 on sexual health appear to be triggered by both psychological and organic causes , these in men who have been infected. Psychological causes Some measures taken to protect the population of COVID-19, such as confinement and social isolation, have led to economic instability for many families and have had a strong impact on physical and mental health. Mental health and sexual activity are closely related. Stress and anxiety and depressed mood are precipitating factors for sexual dysfunction, either due to effects on the couple libido, or as triggers of erectile and/or ejaculatory dysfunction. Organic causes The organic causes of erectile dysfunction after COVID-19 are still not completely understood . In many cases, erectile dysfunction has occurred long after recovery from acute infection. Erectile function is an indicator of overall health and of vascular health . It shares several risk factors with cardiovascular disease. Although the lungs are the organs primarily affected by COVID-19, with important implications for oxygen levels, the c ardiovascular system is also globally affected . The internal lining of blood vessels (endothelium) is reached, which can affect the characteristics of blood flow, including at the level of the penis, interfering with erectile function; There is also evidence of direct effects of COVID-19 on the testicles, with changes in testosterone production (hypogonadism). It is not yet known whether the erectile dysfunction resulting from COVID-19 is a short- or long-term effect , or whether there are implications for fertility. Men who have had COVID-19 are estimated to have a six times higher risk of erectile dysfunction than those who were not infected. Erectile dysfunction is usually a symptom of another health problem. The multiple consequences of COVID-19 and the prolonged periods needed to a complete health recovery are a concern with regard to the possible development of erectile dysfunction. Also, due to the sharing of risk factors, men with erectile dysfunction have a five times higher risk of serious complications in COVID-19 compared to those who do not have erectile dysfunction. The importance of a full sex life for our quality of life, well-being and global health is well known. The benefit of sexual activity on cardiovascular health and the immune system, as well as on the prevention of cognitive disorders and depression, has also been demonstrated. Seeking medical attention when there are changes in erectile function, especially after you have had COVID-19, is essential to timely correct risk factors and implement effective treatment early . Author : Nuno Tomada Marques Meet the urology team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
