New Delhi: Covid-19 pandemic affected many and left its aftereffects in one or the other forms. Among the psychological, physical and financial effects of the pandemic is sexual and reproductive health. Nephro-urologists said that the cases of erectile dysfunction and impotence among men have risen and the number of invasive surgeries to treat the issues has gone up.
As per a report by New Indian Express, medical experts have observed that emotional distress, financial crisis, isolation and excessive consumption of steroids are some of the reasons besides smoking and alcohol consumption for the rise in impotency among the 18-45 age group post-pandemic. The cases of erectile dysfunction have gone up in men suffering from any form of anxiety or stress, or some financial problems.
Dr. Mohan Keshavamurthy, Senior Director of Urology, and Chairman of the Renal Sciences Speciality Council at Fortis Hospitals said that the number of erectile dysfunction or male impotency cases has doubled after the pandemic. Before 2020, there were around 30-40 cases on a monthly basis. He added that the number of procedures requiring surgeries has also doubled.
For a healthy erection, one needs good blood flow in the vessels. Experts tell that mental stress causes the blood vessels to become narrow and this results in ED. While such cases are treated with counselling and medicines for the younger population, the older ones might need invasive surgeries requiring penile implants, if suggested by a doctor.
Most of the cases are cured with medicines and developing interpersonal relationships.
Apart from stress, ED can have various causes including age, excessive tobacco and alcohol consumption, diabetes, obesity, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
