Short and Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Male Sexual Function

Abstract

Background: Reviewing the literature, a vast number of studies are available about the pulmonary effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the effects of COVID-19 infection on sexual function, especially the long-term effects, have been rarely reported. Here, we report the short and long-term effects of COVID-19 infection on male sexual function. Methods: Using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire, the sexual function of 96 COVID-19 patients was evaluated at months 0, 1, 3, and 6 following hospitalization. Results: The findings showed that the sexual function indicators decline during the first month of infection, then start to improve and reach the baseline by the 6th month of infection. Additionally, the analysis of the demographic data revealed that higher age and lower education levels are associated with lower levels of sexual function indicators. Conclusions: Infection with COVID-19 may result in sexual dysfunction, which gradually improves over six months.