Highlights
- Research has established a connection between COVID-19 and erectile dysfunction (ED).
- Men with existing cardiovascular conditions are at an increased risk for developing ED after a COVID-19 infection.
- Chronic stress and anxiety related to COVID may also contribute to ED.
- The best way to prevent COVID-19 is to get vaccinated.
- Most men with ED can be safely treated with prescription ED medications, such as Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra.
- eDrugstore makes it easy for you to access safe and effective treatment for ED.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) isn’t listed as a common symptom of COVID-19. However, men began reporting problems with erectile function early in the pandemic. This blog post summarizes the latest research on the connection between COVID-19 and ED.
The Connection Between COVID and ED
Providers saw an increase in the number of men reporting problems with erectile function in the early stages of COVID-19. Research suggests that men who have had COVID-19 are more than three times as likely to have ED than men who have not been infected with the virus.
The leading theories as to why COVID increases your risk for ED take us back to erectile health 101. Sexual function is complex, but experts tell us that good erectile health stems from a healthy heart and a healthy mind.
Things that can disrupt your erectile function include, but aren’t limited to:
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Certain medications
- Chronic health conditions
- Chronic stress, anxiety, or depression
- Injury to the penis or testes
- Tobacco or substance use
Cardiovascular Factors
Research consistently supports the theory that what is good for your heart is also good for your erectile health. The reverse is also true. For example, men with a history of hypertension or heart attack are more likely to experience ED than men without such histories.
COVID-19 infections can cause new or worsen existing cardiovascular health issues. Some researchers theorize that COVID-19’s negative impact on cardiovascular health is a main driver of ED symptoms in men who have recovered from infection.
Recent research also links COVID-19 to serious cardiovascular problems in veterans. One year after COVID infection, veterans displayed a variety of cardiovascular issues, such as blood clots, inflammation, stroke, heart attack, and heart failure. These effects were documented in patients with both severe and mild COVID infections.
Due to the heavy burden COVID-19 places on the cardiovascular system, antihypertensives and beta blockers are routinely used to mitigate the effects of COVID. These drugs can also cause or contribute to sexual dysfunction in men.
Psychological Factors
Some research suggests that COVID-19 has contributed to ED cases that are rooted in psychosomatic causes. The global pandemic has caused a spike in chronic stress and anxiety for many people. Additionally, people suffering from COVID-19 may experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression as they recover.
Both acute and chronic stress can contribute to ED. A 2021 survey of more than 600 Chinese men revealed that increased anxiety and depression during COVID-19 was strongly associated with reduced sexual function and satisfaction.
Penile Tissue and Testes
Research also suggests that COVID-19 can cause damage to endothelial (blood vessel) cells in the penis and testes, which may be linked to ED.
One study examined penile tissue from men who developed ED following a COVID infection. Researchers found that coronavirus particles collected within the penile tissue. Upon further investigation, researchers found that COVID-19 affects the blood vessels in the penis, as well.
When the endothelial function is compromised, blood flow to the penis is also compromised. This can make it difficult to get or keep an erection.
Additional research has examined the impact of COVID-19 on the testes. For example, a study of deceased COVID patients found significant damage to cells within the testes. A cross-sectional review found that COVID was linked to compromised function in the testes, including decreased testosterone levels.
Other Factors
Researchers theorize that many factors contribute to the link between COVID-19 and ED. Other factors may include:
- Smoking and drinking. Some research suggests that COVID-19 caused an increase in tobacco use and alcohol consumption for the general population. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are risk factors for ED.
- Loss of taste and smell. COVID-19 causes many people to lose their sense of taste and smell. Since each of your senses plays a role in arousal, this loss may affect your responsiveness to a sexual partner.
Who Is Most Likely To Develop ED From COVID?
Anyone can become infected with COVID-19. Several risk factors can increase your chance of experiencing severe COVID and serious health complications, thus increasing your risk of ED.
These factors include:
- Age. Older men are at an increased risk for experiencing an increased inflammatory response from COVID. Older adults are also more likely to experience more severe cases.
- Chronic health conditions. Certain health conditions place you at a greater risk for complications from COVID. These include diabetes, high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular conditions.
- Clinical obesity. Men who are clinically obese are also at greater risk for complications from COVID. Clinical obesity is also an independent risk factor for ED.
- Smoking. Men who smoke are at an increased risk for experiencing more severe COVID-19 symptoms. Tobacco use is also an independent risk factor for ED.
Preventing COVID and ED
The best way to prevent COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several vaccines for the prevention of COVID-19. These vaccines are considered safe and effective for most people.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months of age or older should get vaccinated for COVID-19. Everyone able to get boosters should do so. People who are immunocompromised can speak to their doctor about the best vaccine schedule for their individual health and risk factors.
Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction
Prescription lifestyle medications are the first line of treatment for most men with ED. Your doctor may recommend a combination of lifestyle changes and ED medications to help get your erectile function back on track.
The FDA has approved the following medications to treat ED:
- Cialis (tadalafil)
- Levitra (vardenafil)
- Stendra (avanafil – not yet available in a generic version)
- Viagra (sildenafil)
Find Support with eDrugstore
It’s easier than ever to access treatment for ED thanks to eDrugstore. Visit our erectile dysfunction medication guide to learn more. Take advantage of a complimentary medical consultation, and we will deliver your medication right to your front door. When you order from eDrugstore, shipping is always free.
Shelby is a public health professional with research and field experience in sexual and reproductive health. She holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) and is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES).