Matteo Ruggieri, MSc
Matteo Ruggieri is a European specialist in sexual desire, libido regulation, and psychophysiology with more than 12 years of professional experience in clinical research, sexual wellness consulting, and evidence-based education. His work focuses on bridging biological mechanisms of desire with psychological, relational, and social factors, helping individuals and couples better understand and enhance sexual motivation. Matteo is known for his data-driven approach, interdisciplinary methodology, and accessible way of explaining complex sexual function mechanisms.
Specialization
- Libido and Sexual Motivation
- Desire Disorders (HSDD, SIAD, Hypersexuality)
- Psychoneuroendocrinology of Sexuality
- Relationship-Focused Libido Coaching
- Behavioral Interventions for Sexual Desire
- Evidence-Based Sexual Wellness Programs
Education
- 2006–2009: BSc in Behavioral Psychology, University of Bologna
- 2009–2011: MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience & Psychophysiology, University of Trento
- 2012–2013: Advanced Certificate in Sexual Counseling, European Federation of Sexology (EFS)
Professional Experience
- 2013–2016: Research Associate at Institute of Psychoneuroendocrinology, Milan
- 2016–2020: Senior Sexual Wellness Consultant, European Sexual Health Network
- 2020–Present: Independent Specialist in Desire & Libido Optimization
- Advisor for digital health platforms focusing on libido and intimacy
Case Studies & Research Projects
Case Study #1 — “Circadian Rhythm & Libido Fluctuation in Men (2018)”
Matteo led a quantitative study investigating testosterone-linked desire variations. Sample: 320 participants aged 21–48. Outcome: Identified a 17–22% improvement in self-reported libido when behavioral routines were aligned with circadian peaks. “Desire is not random — it follows measurable biological patterns, and once people understand these rhythms, libido becomes more predictable and manageable.” — M. Ruggieri
Case Study #2 — “Mind-Body Synchronization for Low Sexual Motivation in Couples (2021)”
Designed and implemented a 6-week intervention program for couples experiencing mismatched desire. Results: - 68% reported increased spontaneous desire - 54% reported reduced anxiety around intimacy - Communication satisfaction increased by 32% This program became a foundational model for relationship-based libido coaching in Europe.
Case Study #3 — “Digital Intervention for Desire Disorders Using Micro-Habits (2023)”
Matteo collaborated with a digital health platform to create a micro-habit system for strengthening sexual motivation. Outcome: After 8 weeks, users demonstrated: - 41% improvement in desire frequency - 37% improvement in subjective arousal readiness - 29% reduction in avoidance behaviors “Micro-habits outperform motivation — small daily actions reshape desire far more sustainably than dramatic lifestyle changes.” — M. Ruggieri
Selected Scientific Publications
- Ruggieri, M. (2020). “Neuroendocrine Predictors of Sexual Motivation.” Journal of Human Sexuality, 13(2), 112–130.
- Ruggieri, M. & Colletti, S. (2019). “Cognitive Modulation of Desire in Individuals With Low Libido.” European Sexual Science Review.
- Ruggieri, M. (2017). “Behavioral Conditioning and Libido Response.” International Review of Sexology.
Professional Memberships
- European Federation of Sexology (EFS)
- International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
- Society for Behavioral Medicine (SBM)
International Projects & Collaborations
- Lead Expert — WHO Working Group on Libido Health Strategies (2022–Present)
- Research Partner — “European Libido Mapping Initiative”, covering 22 countries
- Consultant — UNESCO project “Healthy Desire in Adolescents & Young Adults”
Educational Programs Developed
- Creator of “Desire Reset Protocol”: a clinically validated libido restoration program
- Developer of “Mind-Body Libido Training” used by private clinics in Italy and Germany
- Author of online course “Understanding Libido: Science, Psychology, and Behavior”
Media, Interviews & Expert Talks
- Podcast Guest: “The Science of Desire” (Spotify Top 20 in Health Category)
- Interviewed by ELLE, Men's Health Europe, Psychology Today
- Keynote Speaker at the 2023 European Congress on Sexual Medicine
Unique Values & Professional Identity
Matteo combines a scientific, neurobiological framework with practical behavioral strategies. His cross-disciplinary perspective—uniting neuroscience, sexuality research, psychology, and relationship communication—allows him to address libido issues holistically. His work stands out for its clarity, empirical grounding, and human-centered approach.
Articles by Matteo Ruggieri
- how sexual dissatisfaction affects trust in longterm relationships (and what to do about it)
- understanding the powerful force of erotic imagination in literature
- exploring the role of erotic imagination in longterm relationships
- maximizing your sexual satisfaction: how intimacy can help you cope and support your partner
- navigating unfulfilled erotic longing: strategies for couples dealing with sexual disconnect
- understanding the impact of sexual dissatisfaction in relationships: how couples perceive moral weight
- uncovering the complexities of sexual habits: how they affect relationships & what you can do about it
- how your past relationships shape your expectations for better sex
- how suppressed sexual desire due to operational constraints affects mental health?
- sexual relationships and team cooperation the good, bad and the ugly