Stress can have many effects on sexual physiology
Stress is known to affect various body systems, including the reproductive system. In men and women, it may alter hormone levels, which can impact libido, fertility, and pregnancy outcomes.
Stress can cause physical changes that make individuals less interested in or capable of having sex.
Research suggests that some biomarkers are better than others for tracking these interferences. One such biomarker is cortisol, a hormone released during stressful situations. Elevated cortisol levels have been associated with decreased sexual desire and arousal in both males and females. Another biomarker is testosterone, which is responsible for male sexual functioning. High levels of this hormone can lead to increased aggression and competitiveness, while low levels can result in fatigue and reduced muscle mass.
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA) is another biomarker linked to stress and sexuality. It plays a role in regulating emotions and mood, as well as sexual behavior.
Cortisol: The primary stress hormone
Cortisol is often called "the stress hormone" because it is released by the adrenal glands in response to perceived threats. When we experience stress, our bodies release more cortisol to prepare us for action. This hormone also suppresses other hormones involved in reproduction, including those related to sexual function. Studies have shown that high cortisol levels are associated with lower levels of sexual activity, desire, and satisfaction in both men and women. In one study, participants who had higher levels of cortisol reported lower rates of sexual intercourse, fewer sexual partners, and less enjoyment from sex.
Women with high cortisol levels were more likely to report experiencing sexual dysfunction than those with lower levels.
Testosterone: The male hormone
Testosterone is the main hormone responsible for male sexual function. It contributes to sperm production, libido, and erectile function.
Stress can cause levels of testosterone to fluctuate, leading to decreased interest in sex and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. High levels of testosterone can increase aggression and competitiveness, while low levels can result in fatigue and reduced muscle mass. Research has found that chronic stress may lead to long-term reductions in testosterone levels, which could contribute to fertility problems and other health issues.
DHEA: A key regulator of emotions and behavior
DHEA plays a role in regulating emotions, mood, and cognitive function, as well as sexual behavior. It is produced by the adrenal glands and converted into estrogen and testosterone. When we experience stress, our bodies release more DHEA, which can help us cope with the situation.
Chronically elevated DHEA levels have been linked to increased risk of anxiety, depression, and poorer overall mental health. Studies have also found that people with higher levels of DHEA have lower rates of sexual activity, desire, and satisfaction. This suggests that this biomarker may be particularly important in tracking how stress interferes with sexual physiology.
Several biomarkers can help track the impact of stress on sexual physiology. Cortisol, testosterone, and DHEA are all associated with changes in libido, arousal, and sexual performance under stressful conditions. By understanding these biomarkers, researchers and clinicians can better identify individuals at risk for sexual dysfunction and develop targeted treatments to address it.
Further research is needed to determine the most effective ways to measure and manage these hormones to improve overall reproductive health.
Which biomarkers best track stress interference with sexual physiological responses?
Despite various psychological and social approaches to cope with the detrimental impact of prolonged stress on human health, there is no effective method that can eliminate its effect completely. It can be hypothesized that some biomarkers may help detect the influence of stress on sexual behavior.