Evaluating male sexual function and reproductive health during Omicron
outbreak in China: A cross-sectional study
Abstract
Our aim was to estimate changes in sexual function and semen quality in
men recovering from infection since the Omicron pandemic started in
China in late 2022. We collected 1540 questionnaires and assessed male
function before infection and acute phase after infection by using
International Index of Erectile Function-5, Premature Ejaculation
Diagnostic Tool, and Arizona Sexual Experience Scale. We also collected
the before and after semen analysis results of 247 male patients. During
the acute phase after infection, the proportion of erectile dysfunction
was significantly higher than before infection, but ejaculatory function
was not significantly altered; In addition, semen analysis showed
significant difference in semen concentration, semen activity and PR a+b
sperm forward movement after infection compared to pre-infection.
Omicron can affect erectile function as well as sexual experience in
male patients in the acute phase. The risk factors for decreased sexual
function due to Omicron included body temperature and anxiety during
infection.