Despite its prevalence and clinical importance, sexual dysfunctions remain relatively understudied. Sexual health is generally regarded as the ability to enjoy and experience satisfying physical, emotional, mental, and relational aspects of one's sexual life.
This definition does not capture the complexity of sexual functioning that may be affected after military deployment. This article explores how experiences of sexual dysfunction post-deployment relate to unresolved psychological trauma. It reviews existing literature to identify patterns, explore causes, and provide treatment options for those struggling with such challenges. The paper highlights the need for more research into this area and suggests potential interventions for improving sexual health outcomes among veterans.
Experiences of sexual dysfunction post-deployment are common among service members, with estimates ranging from 10% to 82%, depending on the measure used. These difficulties can manifest themselves in various ways, including erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low libido, or pain during sex. One possible cause of these issues is unresolved psychological trauma experienced during deployment. Traumatic events often include combat exposure, witnessing death or injury, being fired upon, experiencing an IED explosion, or other dangerous situations that can leave lasting effects on individuals. Studies have shown that these experiences are associated with higher rates of sexual dysfunction, decreased satisfaction, and lower quality of relationships.
A study of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans found that over 50% reported some form of PTSD symptoms and nearly half had difficulty initiating or maintaining arousal.
Causes
Unresolved psychological trauma can lead to several mechanisms affecting sexual functioning. Firstly, it may reduce interest in intimacy due to fear or avoidance of certain stimuli or situations. Secondly, it may impair physiological responses necessary for sexual activity by triggering stress responses. Thirdly, it may create emotional barriers between partners, which negatively impacts communication and connection.
It may result in negative cognitions about one's self-worth, body image, or relationship quality. All of these factors contribute to reduced sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, and overall enjoyment.
Treatment options
Several treatment options exist for addressing sexual dysfunctions related to unresolved psychological trauma. Psychotherapy, including individual or couples therapy, has been shown to be effective in improving sexually-related distress. This intervention focuses on identifying underlying causes of the problem, processing unresolved traumatic memories, and improving communication skills within the couple. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have also been used successfully to improve sexual functioning.
Relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and breathwork exercises can help regulate physiological responses during sexual activity.
This article highlighted how experiences of sexual dysfunction post-deployment relate to unresolved psychological trauma. It reviewed existing literature to identify patterns, explore potential causes, and provide treatment options for those struggling with these challenges. The paper underscores the need for more research into this area and suggests possible interventions for improving sexual health outcomes among veterans. By raising awareness and promoting accessible treatments, we can support those who suffer from this complex issue and improve their quality of life.
How do experiences of sexual dysfunction post-deployment relate to unresolved psychological trauma?
Sexual dysfunctions are common among military veterans who have experienced deployment and combat. These may include low libido (sex drive), premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus, anorgasmia, and other difficulties with arousal, orgasm, and penetration.