Does COVID-19 Really Cause Erectile Dysfunction? Here's What To Know.
Huff PostLOADING ERROR LOADING We know that the coronavirus can affect many parts of the body, including the brain and lungs. “Erectile dysfunction largely stems from issues with blood flow, so it’s no surprise that COVID-related vascular issues may be related to erectile dysfunction,” Kyle said. “Anything that degrades blood vessels or impedes how freely blood flows throughout all parts of the body will almost assuredly have an impact on the ability to achieve an erection.” PAVEL IARUNICHEV via Getty Images More research needs to be conducted on how COVID-19 affects sexual health, but experts believe we'll see more reports of erectile dysfunction in survivors of the disease. “There is a theory that COVID-19 can lead to a cardiovascular disease called endothelial dysfunction,” Kyle said, which is a condition affecting the large blood vessels on the heart’s surface. “This disease is also caused by other conditions like diabetes, hypertension and smoking, all of which are linked to erectile dysfunction, further suggesting that COVID may contribute to ED later in life.” So, in other words, if COVID-19 causes endothelial dysfunction, it could also be possible that a person will experience ED as a result of that condition.