Human beings are social creatures who rely on intimate connections to thrive and survive. We need affection, physical contact, and emotional closeness for mental wellbeing and happiness. Sexual gratification is an integral part of human existence, which is why most people feel incomplete without it. Our brains have evolved to respond to touch, stimuli, and sensory input from others to keep us alive and reproduce. Without regular sexual activity, our hormones go haywire, leading to physical and psychological issues. This phenomenon is called chronic relational or sexual deprivation.
Hormonal regulation of libido is complex and multifaceted. The hypothalamus, pituitary gland, adrenals, thyroid, and reproductive organs work together to balance sex drive. Testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, DHEA, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, GnRH, oxytocin, dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and vasopressin all play a role in this process. When one hormone level changes, the others follow suit to maintain homeostasis.
When testosterone levels decrease during stressful situations, other hormones rise to compensate.
Under chronic relational or sexual deprivation, the brain produces less oxytocin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that promote social bonding and pleasure. As a result, the individual may lose interest in romance and intimacy, experience withdrawal symptoms, become irritable, anxious, or depressed. Sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction or low libido, may occur due to reduced blood flow to genital areas.
To prevent these effects, individuals can engage in masturbation, erotic fantasies, pornography, or sensory stimulation. But these short-term fixes are not sustainable solutions.
They may lead to addiction, desensitization, or guilt. Instead, people should focus on improving relationships, exploring new interests, seeking professional help, and creating healthy habits like exercise, mindfulness, meditation, and therapy.
How does hormonal regulation of libido change under chronic relational or sexual deprivation?
Hormones are chemical messengers that play an essential role in the regulation of many physiological processes in the body, including reproductive functions. The level of certain hormones, such as testosterone, estrogen, dopamine, and oxytocin, can fluctuate depending on various factors, including physical and mental health conditions, stress levels, dietary habits, age, and lifestyle choices.