Introduction Little is known about the impact of the coronavirus on sexual behavior, function, and satisfaction. Aim The aim of the present study was to systematically review people’s sexual function and behaviors and their changes in sexual activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Comprehensive searches in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were conducted with keywords in accordance with MeSH terms: COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, coronavirus, sexual health, sexual function, sexual dysfunctions, sexuality, sexual orientation, sexual activities, and premarital sex. Two reviewers independently assessed full-text articles according to predefined criteria: original design, English studies, and investigating either the general population or sexual minorities. Results Risk of bias in the studies was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and data were pooled via random effects meta-analyses. We utilized the standardized mean difference to evaluate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on sexual activity, functioning, and satisfaction. We included 19 studies in the analysis and 11 studies in the meta-analysis, with a sample size of 12 350. To investigate sexual activity changes, a sample size of 8838 was entered into the subgroup analysis, which showed a significant decrease in both genders (5821 women, P < .033; 3017 men, P < .008). A subgroup meta-analysis showed that the sexual function of men and women during the COVID-19 pandemic significantly declined (3974 women, P < .001; 1427 men, P < .001). Sexual desire and arousal decreased in both genders, though mainly in women. In investigating sexual satisfaction changes during the COVID-19 pandemic, a meta-analysis with a sample size of 2711 showed a significant decrease (P < .001). The most indicative changes in sexual behaviors during the pandemic were the increase in masturbating and usage of sex toys. Greater COVID-19 knowledge was associated with lower masturbation, oral sex, and vaginal sex. The more protective behaviors were associated with less hugging, kissing, cuddling, genital touching, watching porn with a partner, and vaginal sex. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic led to increased challenges and changes for individuals’ sexual behaviors. Efforts for preventive strategies should therefore be concentrated between pandemics, while ensuring that there is information available to the population during a pandemic for help in times of psychological distress or crisis.
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is known to be a common respiratory and/or cardiovascular complication in hospitalized patients with viral infections. Numerous studies have proven human immunodeficiency virus infection to be a prothrombotic condition. An elevated VTE risk has been observed in critically ill H1N1 influenza patients. VTE risk is remarkably higher in patients infected with the Hepatitis C virus in contrast to uninfected subjects. The elevation of D‐dimer levels supported the association between Chikungunya and the Zika virus and the rise of clinical VTE risk. Varicella‐zoster virus is a risk factor for both cellulitis and the consequent invasive bacterial disease which may take part in thrombotic initiation. Eventually, hospitalized patients infected with the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID‐19), the cause of the ongoing worldwide pandemic, could mainly suffer from an anomalous risk of coagulation activation with enhanced venous thrombosis events and poor quality clinical course. Although the risk of VTE in nonhospitalized COVID‐19 patients is not known yet, there are a large number of guidelines and studies on thromboprophylaxis administration for COVID‐19 cases. This study aims to take a detailed look at the effect of viral diseases on VTE, the epidemiology of VTE in viral diseases, and the diagnosis and treatment of VTE.
Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a unique corneal stromal laser ablation method that uses an excimer laser to reach beneath corneal dome-shaped tissues. In contrast, surface ablation methods, such as photorefractive keratectomy, include removing epithelium and cutting off the Bowman’s layer and the stromal tissue of the anterior corneal surface. Dry eye disease (DED) is the most common complication after LASIK. DED is a typical multi-factor disorder of the tear function and ocular surface that occurs when the eyes fail to produce efficient or adequate volumes of tears to moisturize the eyes. DED influences quality of life and visual perception, as symptoms often interfere with daily activities such as reading, writing, or using video display monitors. Generally, DED brings about discomfort, symptoms of visual disturbance, focal or global tear film instability with possible harm to the ocular surface, the increased osmolarity of the tear film, and subacute inflammation of the ocular surface. Almost all patients develop a degree of dryness in the postoperative period. Detection of preoperative DED and committed examination and treatment in the preoperative period, and continuing treatments postoperatively lead to rapid healing, fewer complications, and improved visual outcomes. To improve patient comfort and surgical outcomes, early treatment is required. Therefore, in this study, we aim to comprehensively review studies on the management and current treatment options for post-LASIK DED.
Background: Sexual health as an essential component of life, has been affected by COVID-19 pandemic. Changing in sexual life has consequences for couples and society. A critical review of current literature on sexual function in general populations will shed light on possible determinants as well as at-risk groups. Thus, the aim of this systematic review is to assess the consequences of COVID-19 on sexual and reproductive health. Methods/Design: A systematic review of literature on data reporting changings of individuals’ sexual life during the COVID-19 pandemic will be performed. The scientific databases of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, the World Health Organization, as well as protocols and guideline related to sexual health, behaviors, function and practices will be systematically searched from the onset of the disease in the world until August 15, 2021. We will consider, appraise, and synthesize studies including the change of sexual function and behaviour (physical, emotional, mental and relational health), SRH-care and services (contraception, birth control, STIs management), and sexual rights (gender-based and sexual minorities violence). Screening of search results and extraction of data from included studies will be conducted cooperatively by two authors. The quality of the studies will be appraised and documented. Results will be compiled and presented in evidence tables. Risk of bias (the quality assessment) will be evaluated by two review authors using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool. This protocol has been conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines. Also, this protocol is registered in PROSPERO with number CRD42021275387.Discussion: Given the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the people’s sexual life and reproductive health, this review aims to provide accurate information on different aspects of sexual function and behavior in populations from various age groups, cultures, and sexual orientations sexual health and reproductive care delivery (contraception, and birth control, SDTs management) and sexual rights (gender-based and sexual minority, sexual violence) to provide a better understanding of COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on people’s sexual lives The findings could be used by health planners and health care providers to address the adverse effects of this period on reproductive health and sexual lives. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42021275387
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