Sexual Anhedonia
Updated:Sexual anhedonia, also known as pleasure dissociative orgasmic dysfunction (PDOD), is a condition where an individual can achieve orgasm but experiences little to no pleasure or satisfaction from it. Despite physiological responses such as muscle contractions and ejaculation occurring normally, the person feels emotionally and physically detached from the experience.
Additional Information
This condition can affect people of all genders and may be caused by various factors, including:
- Psychological issues (depression, anxiety, trauma)
- Neurological conditions
- Hormonal imbalances
- Side effects of certain medications (especially antidepressants)
Sexual anhedonia can be either lifelong or acquired, and it may be generalized (occurring in all sexual situations) or situational. Treatment often involves a combination of therapy, medication adjustments, and exploring alternative sexual practices.
Examples
A person experiencing sexual anhedonia might say, "I can reach orgasm, but it feels empty and unsatisfying."
Someone describing their partner's experience: "They go through the physical motions of climaxing, but afterward, they say they felt nothing pleasurable."