1 month after recovering from Covid-19, the man ‘avoided his wife’ for difficult reasons

The SARS-CoV-2 virus not only affects the respiratory system but is being proven to be a multi-organ disease, including affecting reproductive as well as sexual function.

This virus is thought to be closely related to symptoms such as low libido and erectile dysfunction, through two direct and indirect mechanisms. Scientists have found the virus in the testicles of men with a history of Covid-19.

It shows that, when attacking the body, the SARS-CoV-2 virus disrupts the regulation of ACE-2 (an angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) present in Leydig cells in the testes, causing an excessive inflammatory response, Massive production of pro-inflammatory substances leads to a decrease in the hormone testosterone, which reduces libido, erectile dysfunction and affects sperm.

The Hanoi Hospital of Menopause and Infertility has received many cases of patients visiting for symptoms of decreased libido and erectile dysfunction after contracting Covid-19. Mr. M (35 years old, Hanoi) – one of the patients treated at the hospital, said: “1 month after recovering from Covid-19, I no longer feel interested in sex.”

Although the respiratory symptoms are not many and the recovery time is only 1 week, the sequelae brought by Covid have not yet ended. Mr. M. feels tired, less focused at work, no longer desires in “love” as before.

Ths.BS Pham Minh Ngoc, specialist in Andrology, Hanoi Hospital of Andrology and Infertility, said that after examining and doing tests, the results showed that his testosterone level was only 7.9 nmol/ L (the normal range for Testosterone levels in men ranges between 10 – 28 nmol/L).

Ths.BS Pham Minh Ngoc is examining a patient.

Mr. M. was treated with specific drugs, combined with the exercise and diet regimen recommended by the doctor. After 1 month, his health condition has improved a lot, the spirit is comfortable, excited, awake, even “love” is more passionate.

Also according to Ths.BS Pham Minh Ngoc, we often hear post-Covid symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, insomnia, headaches… but few people mention symptoms of decreased libido and erectile dysfunction. Although not dangerous to the patient’s life and health, the post-Covid-19 sequelae related to sexual problems seriously affect the sex life and reproductive health of the patient.

According to the American Urological Association’s definition, a testosterone level below 10 nmol/L together with signs like Mr. M.’s is a typical sign of hypogonadism and requires an indication for the use of drugs to regulate the hormone testosterone. Low testosterone, if not treated in time, will affect the whole body: mental sluggishness, fatigue, fat gain, muscle mass loss, osteoporosis, sexual dysfunction, reduced fertility…

In cases of male sex hormone deficiency, after taking specific drugs, the above symptoms improved clearly. The post-Covid-19 sequelae, if not paid attention to early examination and treatment, will have many consequences, both in terms of mental health, sexual health and well-being. health reproductive. For those with pre-existing erectile dysfunction, it is more likely that the erection will be worse, along with the decreased sex drive.

Even in previously healthy individuals, sexual dysfunction can occur. Over time, this condition affects the spirit, causing fatigue, frustration, depression, apathy, and even broken relationships.

Although there are no long-term studies, but the SARS-CoV-2 virus has been found in sperm, it is hypothesized that the virus will reduce the density and total sperm count, decrease the survival rate, increase the sperm count. malformations, thereby reducing the possibility of conception.

In the current complicated Covid epidemic trend, besides treatment, post-Covid health care and recovery is also more concerned than ever. Sexual health is a factor that ensures the overall health of each individual.

Therefore, if there are any symptoms such as decreased libido, decreased need for sex, poor erection, we should go to specialized hospitals, see andrology specialists for examination and screening tests. post-Covid sequels to sex and reproduction.

Phuong Le