Abstract
BACKGROUND: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic had a significant impact on sexual health and human behavior, revealing a widespread decline in sexual function and behaviors. OBJECTIVE: To summarize these findings and highlight their importance for public health, this article discusses the changes observed in sexual function and behavior during the pandemic, as well as potential explanations for these trends. METHODS: This study followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, using the keyword search commands: "sexual function" AND ("SARS-CoV-2" OR "COVID-19" OR coronavirus) and "sexual behavior*" AND ("SARS-CoV-2" OR "COVID-19" OR coronavirus) in the Scopus and PubMed databases. The search was conducted on 10 March 2024, including articles published from January 2019 to March 2024. Inclusion criteria required studies focusing on sexual health/function during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, excluding non-English articles and non-adult populations. Studies were screened based on relevance, methodological rigor, and sample size, with data extraction focusing on sexual behavior/function metrics. Results were synthesized to identify trends and propose explanatory models. RESULTS: While some individuals experienced reductions in sexual desire and activities, others reported increases, indicating varied individual responses to stressors such as a pandemic. Two hypotheses are presented to explain these changes: terror management theory and the dual control model of sexual response. The critical role of public health in addressing sexual health and well-being needs during a health crisis is discussed, emphasizing the importance of providing clear information, ensuring access to remote sexual health services, and reducing stigma. The need to integrate sexual health into the global response to future health crises is highlighted to ensure a comprehensive approach to human well-being. CONCLUSIONS: This review shows the multifaceted impact of the pandemic and social distancing in people's sexual function and behaviors, underscoring the importance of considering sexual health as an integral part of the emergency health planning and response, to promote the physical and mental well-being of the population during crises such as the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.