The covid pandemic has had a profound impact on the health of those who have suffered from it. In addition to directly affecting the lungs, it has been proven that there are people who, after contracting the disease, have long-term symptoms that can affect the lungs. heart, kidneys, brain and other organs. As research progresses and more information is collected, new complications associated with the virus are being identified, some unexpected, such as erectile dysfunction. These symptoms are defined as long covid and can significantly weaken the quality of life of those who suffer from it, leaving unknown and lasting consequences.
A consequence of this disease and one that is increasingly associated with it, as has been noted, is erectile dysfunction. This condition occurs mainly due to the body’s inability to maintain adequate blood flow to the penis. We know that the virus affects the blood vessels of everyone who suffers from it, which impairs circulation and can worsen or cause erection problems.
Another aspect to consider is the relationship of the coronavirus with hormonal levels, especially with testosterone. It has been observed that the virus could affect testosterone levels and their reduction can negatively influence the male sexual function.
In addition, covid can also have direct effects on the nervous system, which directly affects the sexual response at the neurological level. These factors, added to already existing pathologies such as obesity, diabetes or cardiovascular diseases, favor cases of erectile dysfunction in patients who have already overcome the infection. In addition, the emotional and psychological burden of covid, which includes anxiety, stress and depression among others, also negatively affects sexual performance, as reported. Dr Antonio Ferrandez, sexologist doctor.
Development of erectile dysfunction
From the first months of the pandemic, doctors began to notice that some men suffering from the coronavirus suffered from difficulty maintaining an erection. Initially, this observation was anecdotal, but as data accumulated, it became clear that there is a significant relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and erectile dysfunction.
A study published in 2021 in the journal Andrology revealed that men who beat covid had almost six times more likely to develop erectile dysfunction compared to those who had not been infected. This finding raised concerns within the medical community and prompted further research to understand the underlying causes of this complication.
Potential mechanisms: Several mechanisms could explain the association between this virus and erectile dysfunction, such as vascular damage. Erectile function depends on adequate blood flow to the penis, and any damage to the blood vessels that supply this area can make an erection difficult.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is a male sex hormone that is involved in the development of the genitals and the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics in men.
It is an anabolic steroid mainly produced through the testiclesalthough a small amount is also released by the adrenal glands. In addition, it is the androgen hormone par excellence, but it is not exclusive to men.
In addition to the fetal period, testosterone becomes particularly important in men once puberty has occurred. From the 11-13 years oldproduction begins to increase in children and continues for the rest of their lives.
Functions of testosterone:
- Promotes the development and growth of the penis, testicles, scrotum and sexual secretory glands.
- Promotes the appearance of male phenotypic characteristics: appearance of beard and body hair, deepening of the voice, growth of the Adam’s apple, etc.
- It stimulates the production of spermatozoa (spermatogenesis) in the seminiferous tubules and thus the development of male fertility.
- It stimulates the maturation of spermatids to become spermatozoa and the definitive formation of sperm.
- Develops bone growth and prevents osteoporosis.
- Promotes increased muscle mass and strength.
Increases libido or sexual desire.
