Combat-Related Injuries & Trauma
The long-term effects of battlefield wounds can be devastating for those who survive them physically.
Few people realize that they also have lasting repercussions in terms of sexual health and function. From physical damage to psychological scarring, combat veterans may find themselves struggling with their sexual lives after returning home from active duty. This article will explore the many ways combat injuries can impact one's sex life in the long term.
Physical Damage
Battlefield trauma often results in serious physical injury, including amputation, paralysis, burns, and nerve damage. For men, these injuries can significantly affect their ability to perform sexually due to reduced sensation, decreased mobility, and erectile dysfunction. Women, too, may experience a loss of pleasure or sensation as well as difficulty becoming aroused.
Veterans who sustain facial injuries may feel self-conscious about intimacy and suffer from body image issues.
Psychological Effects
Many veterans struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions following their deployment. Symptoms like anxiety, depression, and hypervigilance can make it difficult to connect emotionally with others, including romantic partners. Veterans may avoid intimacy altogether out of fear of rejection or being judged by their partner. They may also experience flashbacks, nightmares, and other symptoms during or after sex, making it an unpleasant experience.
Relationship Difficulties
Combat veterans often struggle with relationship difficulties even without physical or psychological challenges. Many have trouble connecting with loved ones who haven't experienced war firsthand, leading to isolation and loneliness. Partners may misunderstand their needs or feel unable to provide the support they need. This can lead to feelings of resentment, anger, and sadness that further complicate sexual relationships.
Treatment Options
There are treatment options available for those struggling with combat-related sexual problems. Physical therapy, counseling, and medication can all help mitigate many of these issues. It is important for veterans and their partners to be open and honest about their struggles so that they can work together towards a happy and fulfilling sex life. With patience and understanding, most couples can overcome the obstacles posed by battlefield injuries and trauma.
What are the long-term sexual consequences of combat-related injuries or trauma?
Long-term consequences of combat-related injuries can have detrimental effects on an individual's sex life. Research has shown that physical injuries, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI) or spinal cord injury (SCI), may result in lowered libido, erectile dysfunction, and decreased arousal, which all contribute to difficulties with sexual functioning (Snyder & Schuster, 2015).