Can psychedelics use improve sexual function?
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Sexual functioning and satisfaction are integral to human well-being, but sexual dysfunction is common in mental health disorders and can be a side effect of SSRIs, commonly prescribed for depression. While psychedelics have been known to decrease inhibitions and promote ease during sex, their effects on sexual functioning had not been formally studied until now.
A recent study has explored the potential effects of psychedelics on post-acute sexual functioning, shedding light on an area previously untested. This study was published in the journal of Scientific Reports by Tommaso Barba and colleagues. While anecdotal evidence suggested link, formal research had been lacking. The study aimed to investigate the impact of psychedelics on self-reported sexual functioning, combining data from a large naturalistic study and a smaller clinical trial.
The study combined data from two independent studies: a large naturalistic study and a smaller controlled clinical trial. The naturalistic study examined self-reported sexual functioning among individuals using psychedelics, while the clinical trial compared psilocybin therapy to SSRI treatment for depression, assessing changes in sexual functioning post-treatment.
• People who took psychedelics reported increased enjoyment of sex, arousal, satisfaction, attraction to their partner, perceived attractiveness, and connection.
• Naturalistic use of psychedelics was associated with improvements in various facets of sexual functioning, including pleasure, communication during sex, satisfaction with partner, and physical appearance.
• Controlled trial comparing psilocybin therapy to SSRI treatment for depression found positive changes in sexual functioning among psilocybin-treated patients but not in those treated with the SSRI escitalopram.
The findings suggest a potential positive effect of psychedelics on post-acute sexual functioning. However, experts caution against potential health consequences and emphasize that mood-altering substances can affect individuals differently. They also highlight the importance of self-reflection and therapy for improving sexual function without the use of drugs.
This study provides quantifiable evidence supporting the notion that psychedelics may enhance sexual functioning post-acutely. While promising, further research is needed to fully understand the implications and potential risks associated with psychedelic use on sexual health.
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