The topic is Combat Trauma and Injury Effects on Sexual Life.
It is difficult to write about something as personal as sex and sexuality without being too clinical or technical. But this article will focus on the long-term physical, psychological, emotional, social, and relational effects of combat trauma and injury on one's sexual life. It will cover what happens when someone experiences sexual dysfunction after being injured in combat. What are the consequences for their partner? How can these effects be addressed? What resources exist to help them? This article will provide practical advice for those who have experienced combat trauma and their partners on how to navigate these issues.
Sexual dysfunction is defined as difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection or ability to orgasm. Sexual dysfunctions can include low libido, premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, pain during intercourse, vaginismus, anorgasmia, and others. Common causes include medications, age, alcohol, smoking, chronic health conditions, psychiatric disorders, relationship problems, and military service. Combat trauma can cause sexual dysfunction by causing physical injuries such as penile fracture, testicular damage, prostate cancer, bladder control issues, pelvic floor damage, erectile dysfunction, and more.
Penile fractures occur from direct impact to the shaft or glans. They can result in bleeding and swelling and require surgery to repair. Testicular damage can cause permanent reduction in size and fertility. Prostate cancer is often asymptomatic until it spreads outside the gland. Bladder control issues can lead to urinary incontinence. Erectile dysfunction involves decreased blood flow to the penis and nerve damage affecting sensation. Pelvic floor damage can make sex uncomfortable due to tissue stretching or rupture.
The long-term consequences of these injuries can include lower self-esteem, anxiety about intimacy, fear of rejection, social isolation, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and relationship strain. Partners may feel rejected, resentful, or anxious about their partner's performance. Sexual therapy can help with communication and intimacy skills to build trust and restore confidence. Antidepressants, hormone replacement therapy, and Viagra are treatment options for some injuries.
Sexuality after combat injury requires patience, understanding, and creativity. It can be difficult to talk about but important to address. Military personnel should seek medical care, support groups, and couples counseling if needed. With time and effort, sexual function can improve.
What are the long-term sexual effects of combat trauma and injuries?
Combat trauma can lead to long-term sexual dysfunction due to physical, mental, and social factors. Physical injuries such as genitalia damage or paralysis from nerve injury may result in loss of pleasure during sex, erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation. Psychological impact like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance abuse can also affect sexual arousal, performance, and satisfaction.