If you have bipolar disorder, you may be experiencing some changes in your sex life. You're not alone, so don't worry. This condition, and some of the medications you take for it, can affect your sexual behavior and desire. The important thing is to understand the symptoms and side effects and work with your doctor to find the best solution. Let's talk about this openly.
What are the effects of bipolar disorder on sexual life?
The main symptom of this mental illness is extreme mood swings. This means that you may feel extremely happy and energetic (mania) at one time, and extremely sad and depressed (depression) at another. Along with these mood swings, changes in sexual attitudes and behavior are also common symptoms of this illness. Let's take a look at how this can affect your sex life.
| Impact | Simply put... |
|---|---|
| Hypersexuality | This means that sex becomes the main focus of your life. This can lead to you not being able to control this behavior, even if it is harmful to yourself or others. This condition is most common during the manic phase of the illness. During this time, you are more likely to indulge in activities that bring you pleasure without thinking about the possible harm. |
| Risky behaviors | This condition can make you more likely to take risks, such as having sex with strangers, not using condoms, or mixing sex with drugs. |
| Decreased sexual satisfaction | You may find that you are not getting as much pleasure from sex as you used to. Or your sex drive may decrease completely. This is especially common during the depressive phase of the disease. This can be caused by the extreme fatigue and lack of interest that you feel during this time. |
| Sexual Dysfunction | Problems can occur in all four main areas of sexual functioning: desire, arousal, orgasm, and pain during intercourse. This can be a persistent symptom of bipolar disorder. These problems can occur even when your mood is "normal," not manic or depressive. |
Side effects of medications taken for bipolar disorder
Medication can be a great help in controlling your manic and depressive episodes. However, some medications can cause sexual problems as a side effect.
Lithium
Lithium is a commonly used medication for bipolar disorder. About three out of ten people taking this medication report sexual problems. Lithium can lower levels of the male hormone testosterone , which can directly affect sexual desire. Lithium can also block a chemical that helps men get and maintain an erection. This can cause erectile dysfunction . These problems can be made worse if you take a fast-acting sleeping pill called a benzodiazepine with lithium.
Other possible effects of lithium include:
- Decreased frequency of sexual intercourse
- Decreased occurrence of sexual fantasies
- Decreased sexual satisfaction
Antipsychotic medications
If you have frequent manic episodes, your doctor may prescribe an antipsychotic medication such as Aripiprazole (Abilify) or Olanzapine (Zyprexa). These work by blocking the receptors in the brain that receive the chemical messenger dopamine . However, as a side effect, they can increase levels of the hormone prolactin , which controls sexual functions such as the menstrual cycle and sperm production. This can make it harder for you to get aroused or have an orgasm.
Anticonvulsants
This type of medication can help control mood swings if lithium doesn't work for you. However, some anti-epileptic drugs can interfere with your menstrual cycle or hormonal function. They can also cause a decrease in sex drive and difficulty getting an erection .
So what can you do about this?
The best and most important thing you can do is to talk to your doctor about this honestly and openly, without hiding anything.
This is nothing to be ashamed of. These are part of the disease and the medication. If you are clear about your symptoms and side effects, your doctor can tailor a treatment plan that works best for you.
It can be very helpful to keep a journal of your sexual problems , such as decreased or increased desire, and other discomforts. These notes are especially valuable when you are trying different medications to find the right medication and dosage for you. With this information, it will be easier for your doctor to find the best solution for you.
Most importantly: Never stop taking your medication or change the dosage without your doctor's advice. Doing so can cause your condition to get out of control and get worse. So be sure to talk to your doctor before making any changes.
Take-Home Message
- Bipolar disorder and the medications it takes can affect your sexual health . This is normal, so don't worry about it.
- Hypersexuality is common during the manic phase of the illness, and decreased sexual desire is common during the depressive phase.
- Don't be ashamed of any sexual problems or changes you feel, and talk openly with your doctor.
- Keeping a diary of your symptoms can help you and your doctor understand the problem and find solutions.
- You should never stop taking prescribed medications or change the dosage without medical advice.
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