Sexual desires, orientations, and expressions are highly personal and varied, yet they can be impacted by many factors, including experiences that may seem unrelated to them. One such factor is trauma, which can have significant effects on an individual's mental health and overall well-being. For those who serve in the armed forces, this can include exposure to combat and other stressors during deployment. In turn, traumatic experiences may alter their sexual preferences, orientation, or expression, leading to challenges for both individuals and their partners.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common psychological condition among military personnel, affecting around 10% of veterans. Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance behavior, and emotional numbness. These symptoms can negatively impact relationships, causing changes in intimacy and communication, as well as altered sexual desire and behavior. Veterans with PTSD may feel detached from their partner emotionally, resulting in less physical affection and fewer sexual encounters. They may also experience heightened anxiety and fear during sex, making it difficult to relax and enjoy themselves.
Trauma can lead to sexual dysfunctions, including erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and difficulty achieving orgasm. This can cause distress and frustration for both partners, as well as a sense of failure and shame for the person experiencing it. Some veterans may develop new sexual preferences or orientations as a result of trauma, such as kinky or BDSM desires that they did not previously have. Others may become more promiscuous or engage in risky sexual behaviors.
Trauma has a complex relationship with sexuality, which cannot be overlooked when treating military personnel. It's essential for healthcare providers to ask about sexual history and any issues that may arise due to trauma, so appropriate treatment strategies can be developed.
Partners should be supportive and understanding, providing a safe space for communication and healing. By addressing these challenges openly and compassionately, military personnel and their partners can work towards a fulfilling and satisfying sex life together.
In what ways can trauma alter sexual preferences, orientation, or expression among military personnel?
Traumatic events such as combat experiences or witnessing war atrocities may lead to changes in sexual preferences, orientation, or expression among military personnel. Trauma can cause various physical and mental health issues that impact sexual function, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, and pain during sex. This may affect individuals' interest in engaging in sexual activities with others or their partners.