StressWhile the underlying causative factors for sexual dysfunction are many and varied, there is at least one recurrent theme: stress. Deadlines to meet at work, critical life events, performance anxiety, financial pressures – wherever it comes from, stress can be detrimental to your sex life. Mentally, physically, emotionally. Stress is the body’s natural response to pressure situations. Whenever a stressing event occurs, the sympathetic nervous system is rapidly activated, leading to the widespread release of noradrenaline and adrenaline, disturbing homeostasis [1]. The extra energy expenditure during this “fight or flight” response can result in fatigue and lethargy, both of which may negatively impact upon performance in the bedroom. Psychologically, stress can diminish the ability to predict upcoming events and exert control over situations [2], potentially leading to a vicious negative feedback cycle which culminates in self-doubt. This may then give way to performance anxiety, or diminish the ability to achieve an erection or become aroused generally. Or, as a result of the considerable physical, mental and emotional tiredness that stress can precipitate, it may be simply impossible to get yourself “in the mood.” All the while, your sex life suffers, as does an important dimension of communication with your partner.
1. de Kloet ER, Joels M, Holsboer F: Stress and the brain: from adaptation to disease. Nat Rev Neurosci 2005, 6(6):463-475. 2. Ibid.
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