Elisabetta Romano, MSc

Elisabetta Romano is an Italian-born specialist in sexual desire, libido regulation, and biopsychological foundations of human intimacy. With over 14 years of clinical and research experience, she is widely recognized for her evidence-based approach, combining neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral therapy to help individuals and couples understand the mechanisms behind desire, arousal, and emotional bonding. Her work focuses on bridging scientific knowledge with accessible education to improve sexual wellbeing at all life stages.

Specialization

Libido and Desire Regulation
Arousal Physiology
Neuroendocrinology of Sexual Response
Couples’ Sexual Dynamics
Psychological Factors of Low Desire
Interventions for Desire Discrepancy

Education

2004–2007: BSc in Cognitive Psychology, University of Milan
2007–2009: MSc in Clinical Sexology, Sapienza University of Rome
2010–2012: Advanced Certification in Behavioral Therapy for Sexual Dysfunctions, European Federation of Sexological Sciences

Professional Experience

2012–2016: Clinical Sexologist, Centro di Psicologia e Sessualità, Milan
2016–2021: Senior Researcher, European Institute for Sexual Health
2021–Present: Independent Consultant & Program Director for International Sexual Wellness Initiatives
Advisor for pharmaceutical R&D teams in libido-related interventions and hormone-behavior research

Key Research Cases

Case Study: Desire Dysregulation in Post-Stress Clients (2018) Analyzed 270+ participants demonstrating how chronic stress reduced spontaneous desire in 62% of subjects. Developed a 3-phase intervention protocol later implemented in 14 clinical centers across Europe.
Case Study: Libido Recovery After Long-Term Relationship Fatigue (2020) Led a 16-month observational study of 124 couples showing measurable improvements in desire levels (32–48%) after structured behavioral re-engagement therapy.
Neurohormonal Mapping of Desire Fluctuations (2022) Conducted a cross-cultural study on dopamine–oxytocin interaction patterns; findings now used in multiple educational programs on emotional–sexual bonding.

Author Quotes

“Desire is not a mystery — it is a dynamic system influenced by neurobiology, emotional climate, and the quality of connection between partners.”

“When people learn to understand their own libido patterns, they regain agency over intimacy — and that alone transforms relationships.”

Selected Scientific Publications

Romano, E. (2021). “Reframing Low Libido: A Multidimensional Approach.” Journal of Sexual Motivation, 19(2), 77–105.
Romano, E. & De Luca, A. (2019). “Dopaminergic Response in Desire Regulation.” European Review of Sexology, 14(4), 201–223.
Romano, E. (2017). “Stress, Burnout and Libido Suppression.” International Journal of Psychosexual Health, 8(1), 34–59.

Professional Memberships

European Society for Sexual Medicine (ESSM)
World Association for Sexual Health (WAS)
Italian Association of Clinical Sexology (AISC)

International Projects & Impact

Lead developer of the “Libido Literacy for Women 30+” project implemented in 9 countries (350k+ participants)
Consultant for the WHO taskforce on Libido & Quality of Life (2021–2023)
Creator of the “Desire Mapping Framework” used by therapists worldwide
Scientific advisor for the EU “Healthy Intimacy in Digital Age” initiative

Educational Programs

Author of the “Understanding Your Libido Cycles” digital course (over 120,000 students)
Developer of the “Couple Desire Synchronization Program” for relationship therapists
Instructor of masterclasses on hormonal, psychological and behavioral factors of desire

Interviews, Lectures & Podcasts

Featured expert: “The Science of Libido” — BBC Science Hour
Podcast series host: “Desire Decoded” (Top 30 Sexual Wellness Podcasts, 2023)
Keynote speaker: European Sexual Health Congress (Rome, Vienna, Copenhagen)
Regular contributor to Psychology Today and Sexual Health Insights

Unique Values and Expertise

Elisabetta Romano combines rigorous scientific research with real-world therapeutic experience, offering a balanced, human-centered perspective on desire and libido. Her work is distinguished by her ability to translate complex neurobiological concepts into actionable strategies for improving sexual wellbeing. Her commitment to scientific accuracy, cultural inclusivity, and emotional literacy positions her as a leading expert in understanding and optimizing human desire.