Unveiling the genitourinary phenotype of long COVID: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

IMPORTANCE

Long COVID has been associated with persistent multisystemic manifestations. However, genitourinary alterations have not been formally recognized as a distinct phenotype despite growing reports suggesting their relevance for long-term morbidity and quality of life.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the frequency and characteristics of genitourinary manifestations in patients with long COVID and to evaluate the evidence supporting the possible emergence of a genitourinary phenotype within long COVID.

DATA SOURCES: For this Systematic review and meta-analysis, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, SciELO, and Bireme-BvS from inception to October 2025, without language or publication date restrictions. Observational studies (cross-sectional, cohort, or case-control) assessing individuals with one or more genitourinary symptoms-such as menstrual alterations, erectile dysfunction, urinary tract symptoms, or renal function decline-persisting ≥ 12 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. Studies addressing only acute-phase manifestations, vaccine-related effects, or pre-existing genitourinary conditions were excluded.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers following PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for prevalence studies. A random-effects meta-analysis using the Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation was applied to estimate pooled proportions, and heterogeneity was quantified using the I2 statistic, Cochran's Q test, and the between-study variance (τ2).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary outcomes were the pooled frequencies of genitourinary manifestations in long COVID, including menstrual disorders, erectile dysfunction, and renal function decline.

RESULTS

Nine primary studies encompassing 2332 participants from eight countries were included. Most studies (88.9%) presented a low RoB. The pooled frequency of menstrual disorders was 49% (95% CI 24-74), erectile dysfunction 21% (95% CI 16-28), and renal function decline 29% (95% CI 20-39).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: This systematic review and meta-analysis provide evidence supporting the possible emergence of a genitourinary phenotype of long COVID, encompassing menstrual irregularities, erectile dysfunction, cystitis-like symptoms, and renal impairment. Recognition of this potential phenotype is crucial for improving diagnostic accuracy, patient follow-up, and multidisciplinary management. Further high-quality studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and long-term clinical implications.