Sex After Trauma: Sexuality is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human experience that involves biological, psychological, social and cultural factors. Yet, discussions about trauma rarely include the impact on an individual’s sexual health and capacity for intimacy in relationships. For many, this is a significant challenge and one that often health practitioners are ill-equipped or uncomfortable to address during treatment. As a result, these challenges can be left untreated and worsen over time. With support from a psychologist or mental health professional trained in Human Sexuality, individuals can work through their trauma, it’s impact on sexual functioning and develop healthier, more fulfilling sexual experiences resulting in improved sexual wellness.

Neurological mechanisms

It’s important to understand that the trauma response and sexual arousal share some similar neurological mechanisms. These include:

• Activation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS): Both trauma and sexual arousal activate the ANS. The ANS regulates bodily responses like heart rate, breathing, and blood flow.
• Release of stress hormones: Both trauma and sexual arousal involve the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.
• Activation of the brain’s reward system: Both trauma and sexual arousal activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and endorphins.
• Increased blood flow and tension: Both trauma and sexual arousal can cause increased blood flow and tension in the body.
• Similar brain regions involved: Both trauma and sexual arousal involve activation of similar brain regions. These include the amygdala, hippocampus, and hypothalamus.

How might this impact sexual functioning

These similarities in neurological responses can lead to complex associations between trauma and sexuality. As a result, trauma can significantly impact sexual functioning in several ways:

• Hypervigilance: Difficulty relaxing and feeling safe during sexual activity.
• Avoidance: Avoiding sexual activity or intimacy due to feelings of anxiety or fear.
• Dissociation: Disconnecting from one’s body or emotions during sex.
• Pain: Experiencing physical pain or discomfort during sex.
• Low desire: Decreased sexual desire or interest.
• Arousal difficulties: Difficulty becoming or staying aroused.
• Orgasmic difficulties: Difficulty achieving orgasm.
• Emotional numbing: Feeling emotionally disconnected from oneself or one’s partner during sex.
• Flashbacks: Experiencing traumatic memories or flashbacks during sex.
• Shame and guilt: Feeling shame or guilt around sexual activity or desires.

It’s important to note that while there are neurological and physiological similarities, trauma and sexuality are distinct experiences with different emotional, cognitive, and behavioural components.

Taking the first step towards sexual healing

At Allied Health for Wellness, we have qualified mental health professionals who can provide tailored psychology and counselling to help individuals navigate these complex responses and develop healthy coping strategies in a safe and supportive environment. With education, acceptance and guidance, we are committed to supporting individuals to develop a greater understanding of trauma in order to increase their capacity for intimacy, which is essential for overall wellbeing.