A study that looked at the effect of COVID-19 on sexual and reproductive health found that erectile dysfunction (ED) has occurred in some men.* While researchers are still unsure of the exact cause, they have several theories as to why this may be.

Potential Causes of ED Post-COVID

1. Poor Bloodflow – Because a virus promotes inflammation as an immune response, sometimes a high level of inflammation can impact the blood vessels. Small blood clots can form, and the lining of the blood vessels can become inflamed. Together, these factors can disrupt blood flow, which is critical for making an erection possible.
2. Beta-Blockers – In some cases, inflammation from COVID-19 may worsen a pre-existing heart condition like heart inflammation or an irregular heartbeat. People with these conditions may take beta-blockers, a common side effect of which is ED. 
3. Fibrosis – Doctors also wonder if COVID-19 can cause scarring of erectile tissue. This could occur because of the severe stress, both psychological and physiological, that can increase stress hormones and decrease testosterone production. When testosterone declines, fibrosis [thickening or scarring] of the penile tissue can occur, which can sometimes have permanent effects. 
4. Impacted Testicles – Since the virus has been found in testicles, they may function less adequately and produce less testosterone. Low testosterone, which is mainly formed in the testicles, can lead to ED, in addition to other side effects, such as decreased sex drive and energy—and even muscle mass.

Prioritizing Your Mental Health

The mental health ramifications of COVID-19 may also contribute to the onset of ED. The uncertainty of the pandemic can wreak havoc on our health, including our sexual health, if we find ourselves excessively worrying. Stress, depression, and anxiety can all lead to ED. Therefore, make it your goal to find ways to get into the right frame of mind by maintaining routines, such as exercise and mindfulness practices.

*Thirumavalavan, N., MD. (2021, January 8). How Having COVID-19 May Affect Men’s Sexual Health. University Hospitals. https://www.uhhospitals.org/Healthy-at-UH/articles/2021/01/how-having-covid-19-may-affect-mens-sexual-health

Much about the novel coronavirus, i.e., COVID-19, is still not fully understood. As research progresses and our knowledge of the virus increases, information can change rapidly. We strive to update all of our articles as quickly as possible, but there may occasionally be some lag between scientific developments and our revisions.