What Is Sexual Anorexia?

Sexual anorexia is characterised by a lack of desire for sexual contact. Anorexia is defined as "disrupted appetite." Your sexual appetite is thwarted in this case.

Sexual anorexia patients avoid fear or dread sexual intimacy. Inhibited sexual desire, sexual avoidance, or sexual aversion are all terms used to describe the condition. It can include physical issues, such as male impotence. It frequently has no physical cause. Sexual anorexia can affect both men and women.

Symptoms

Sexual anorexia is characterised by a lack of sexual desire or interest. When the subject of sex comes up, you may also feel afraid or angry. Dr Sanja Rozman explained at the 2011 Global Addiction Conference that someone with this condition could become obsessed with avoiding sex. also, The obsession may even begin to take over your life.

Causes

Sexual anorexia can be caused by both physical and emotional issues. Among the physical causes are:

• Breast-feeding
• Medication use
• Recent childbirth
• Exhaustion
• Hormone imbalances

The following are examples of common emotional causes:

• Strict religious upbringing about sex
• Power struggles with a partner or a loved one
• Rape
• Communication problems
• Sexual abuse
• A negative attitude toward sex

Also Read More: Healthy Sex Tips for Men

Diagnosis

Sexual anorexia is difficult to identify. There is no single test available to diagnose the condition. Consult your doctor or a therapist if you suspect you have it. A therapist, psychiatrist, or sex therapist can assist you in determining the cause of your symptoms. also, Your doctor may order tests to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Also, blood tests, for example, can reveal hormonal imbalances. also, These imbalances may impair your libido.

Medical Attention

Hormone therapy is an effective treatment option for some people suffering from sexual anorexia. Adults who have suppressed sexual desire as a result of low testosterone or estrogen levels may benefit from medical treatment. Moreover, This is especially beneficial for men who have lost sexual interest due to erectile dysfunction. Menopausal women who have lost their desire may benefit from hormone replacement therapy to increase their libido.

Therapy

Treatment for the emotional side effects of sexual anorexia is also required. Effective communication and conflict resolution skills can assist couples in dealing with sexual issues. Couples therapy, relationship training, or sessions with a sex therapist may be beneficial. If you were raised to believe that sex is wrong or if you have experienced sexual trauma, consult with a professional therapist.

Pornography and sexual anorexia

Some cases of sexual anorexia may be linked to pornographic use. The Italian Society of Andrology and Sexual Medicine (SIAMS) studied over 28,000 Italian men. also, Men who grew up watching a lot of porn became desensitised to it. They were more likely to lose interest in sexual situations in real life.

The difference between sexual anorexia and sexual addiction

Also, Some people who have sexual anorexia go through cycles in which they also have symptoms of sexual addiction. Sexual anorexia and sexual addiction often stem from the same belief system, according to Dr Patrick Carnes, author of Sexual Anorexia: Overcoming Sexual Self-Hatred. Consider it two sides of the same coin. also, Both conditions share the desire to have control over one's life, as well as feelings of despair and preoccupation with sex. also, Sex addicts are too compulsive and promiscuous to take control of their lives and deal with the negativity. The distinction is that sexual anorexics gain control by rejecting sex. Some other modalities consider it as a compulsion rather than an addiction. Learn more about Out of Control Sex Behavior.

In a Nutshell

The prognosis for people suffering from sexual anorexia varies greatly. Depending on your underlying health conditions, the medical half of the equation may be simple to resolve. also, The deep, psychological aspects of the condition, on the other hand, can be more difficult to treat.
Many treatment centers for sexual addiction or OCSB also have programs for sexual anorexia. Inquire with your doctor or a therapist about treatment options. Maintain open lines of communication with your partner. This can help them avoid feeling rejected. also, While you work through your sexual difficulties, focus on nonsexual affection and touch. This may make you feel more connected and optimistic about your future together.