The Covid virus could contribute to severe erectile dysfunction and infertility in men, according to a new study.
The virus has been found in men's genitals long after a patient has recovered from the disease - with scientists warning it could be sexually transmitted.
Scientists say Covid-related endothelial dysfunction, a condition in which the lining of the small blood vessels of an organ fail to perform all of its functions normally, could contribute to severe erectile problems, reports The Mirror.
Ranjith Ramasamy, study author, associate professor and director at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine's Reproductive Urology Program, said: "Our research shows that Covid-19 can cause widespread endothelial dysfunction in organ systems beyond the lungs and kidneys.
"The underlying endothelial dysfunction that happens because of Covid-19 can enter the endothelial cells and affect many organs, including the penis.
"In our pilot study, we found that men who previously did not complain of erectile dysfunction developed pretty severe erectile dysfunction after the onset of Covid-19 infection."
The researchers gathered tissue samples from men's genitals and found endothelial dysfunction.
Some of those tested had had Covid up to eight months before the test.
Dr Ramasamy said: "Men who develop Covid-19 infection should be aware that erectile dysfunction could be an adverse effect of the virus, and they should go to a physician if they develop ED symptoms."
In a previously published study, Dr Ramasamy and Miller School colleagues found the virus can also invade testicles and could be linked to infertility. They are studying whether Covid can be sexually transmitted.
The study was recently published in the World Journal of Men's Health.
