Understanding Post-Coital Dysphoria
Have you ever come across the term post-coital dysphoria? It’s a phenomenon recognized by clinical psychologists as a functional disorder that primarily affects women. This condition manifests as a wave of negative emotions—such as sadness, anxiety, irritability, or even anger—following sexual intercourse. While women report it more frequently, there are occasional instances where men experience similar feelings.
The Causes Behind It
According to Dr. Rullo, post-coital dysphoria can be attributed to both physical and emotional factors. On a physiological level, it relates to the drop in neurotransmitters that flood the brain during intimate moments. Emotionally, it often arises from a diminished sense of connection or excitement after the act.
Exploring Sexual Aversion Disorder
Another intriguing condition worth discussing is Sexual Aversion Disorder (SAD). This used to be classified as a sexual desire disorder in the DSM, but it was ultimately removed due to insufficient evidence and its infrequent diagnoses. Many psychiatrists believed that SAD overlapped with other issues, such as vaginismus and sexual desire disorders. However, Dr. Goerlich points out that labeling it as a disorder can carry a stigma, as it may unfairly pathologize natural variations in libido and asexuality.
Addressing Sexual Avoidance
Although SAD is no longer recognized as a clinical diagnosis, avoidance of sexual intimacy is a genuine concern that can often be traced back to past traumas or negative experiences associated with sex. Dr. Rullo suggests that individuals suffering from intense aversions may find relief through exposure therapy techniques, such as sensate focus, which encourages sensual and sexual exercises with a partner to foster intimacy.
Navigating Sexual Anxiety
Feeling anxious about sex from time to time is perfectly normal. The messages we receive from society regarding sex, sexuality, and relationships can significantly influence our feelings of anxiety. Tanner stresses that sexual anxiety isn’t necessarily a disorder; instead, it often reflects our internal thoughts and emotions surrounding sex. By confronting and addressing these underlying beliefs, we can enhance our overall sexual experiences.
