Post-COVID syndrome's impact on sex life - results from a cross-sectional study

Having a satisfying sexual life is important to many people and impairment of sexual function is often perceived as a burden. This study investigates the self-perceived impairments to sex life in adults with Post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) and factors that are associated with impaired sex life.

A cross-sectional online survey of people with PCS and without PCS was conducted in Northern Germany. Sex life impairments were assessed using item 8 (frequency and quality of sex life) of the Index for the Assessment of Health Impairments (IMET), scored from 0 (no impairment) to 10 (no activity possible). Scores were analyzed as a continuous outcome because no validated cut-offs have been established for this individual item. Linear regression models were used to adjust for sociodemographic factors as well as medical and mental health conditions. Sample weighting for age and gender was applied in sensitivity analyses to adjust for a representative sample of people with PCS.

A total of 892 participants were included, with 67.8% (n = 605) reporting PCS. Persons with PCS reported significantly higher sex life impairments (mean score 4.62) compared to those without PCS (mean score 2.58, p < 0.001). The regression model confirmed that PCS was associated with sex life impairments (β = 1.16, p < 0.001). No significant correlation was found between sex life impairments and the symptom duration symptoms or the respondents´ gender.

Impaired sex life is a significant concern for PCS patients, that warrants attention from healthcare providers. Our findings highlight the importance of addressing sex life impairments in the care of people with PCS.