Affecting between 1 and 2.5% of the population in France, bipolarity is a relatively rare but particularly disabling pathology (one of 10 most disabling pathologies according to the WHO). This type of pathology is manifested by a multitude of symptoms, but what we think less about is its possible consequences on the sexual health of people who suffer from it. Here's how bipolarity can affect sexual health.
Formerly called manic-depressive disorder, bipolarity is a condition characterized by significant mood disorders that alternate between high levels of euphoria and depression. These two types of antagonistic moods can last from a few days to a few months. During a depressive phase, a person with bipolarity may feel sad or hopeless and lose interest or enjoyment in most activities. When the mood changes to the opposite extreme, the person may feel euphoric, full of energy, but also unusually irritable. These mood swings can affect sleep, energy, physical or professional activity, judgment, behavior, and the ability to think clearly.
These episodes of mood swings can occur up to several times a year depending on who has or without symptoms experienced between intense episodes.
Bipolarity lasts a lifetime, but episodes of mood swings (and other symptoms) can be managed through treatment. She may be supported to a certain extent with the help of drug treatments as well as through psychological support from a professional.
The causes of this pathology remain poorly understood, however elements such as genetic, psychological and environmental factors may be involved. Links can also be established with other factors such as taking certain medications or using drugs, including cannabis.
Bipolarity can also affect sexual activity in a number of ways. During manic episodes, the person concerned may experience an almost frenzied increase in sexual activity without it providing satisfaction. During these phases, we also notice the multiplication of sexual thoughts as well as the increased consumption of pornographic content. This sexual frenzy can have the effect of seeing the multiplication of partners and risky behaviors, thus increasing the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Unlike the manic phase, during a depressive episode, it is likely that the person will completely lose interest in sex and experience a drastic drop in libido. This opposite phenomenon of hypersuality is then called hyposexuality. These phases can often create relationship problems in people in relationships, as it is difficult for the partner to understand this sudden absence of desire and libido. This is especially true when there is a transition from extreme mania characterized by hypersexual behavior to a sudden loss of interest in sex. This type of situation can create a feeling of confusion, frustration, and even rejection.
In addition, depressive periods can also be accompanied by sexual dysfunctions such as erectile dysfunction in men and equivalent problems in women such as vaginal dryness. It is still possible to remedy the problem of erectile dysfunction through the use of a dedicated treatment. Since the latter are sold by prescription, prior consultation with a doctor is necessary. In addition, it should be noted that this type of treatment is not covered by health insurance, therefore the price of Cialis, Viagra, etc. is freely set by the pharmacies and remains the responsibility of the patient.
Some medications prescribed to treat bipolarity can also reduce libido and affect sexual activity. This is particularly the case for antipsychotics or lithium (non-exhaustive list). In any case, regardless of the impact, including negative ones, that the symptomatic treatments of this pathology may have, it is appropriate to continue taking the prescribed medications.
Stopping the dose significantly increases the occurrence of manic or depressive episodes. If the treatments in question have a negative impact on libido, the best alternative is to talk to a doctor who will be able to find alternatives in order to find the right balance between managing bipolarity and maintaining sexual activity as normal as possible.
Like most pathologies, whether physical or mental, it is important for the patient to Understand all the ins and outs. In the specific case of bipolar disorders, it is essential to know your possible risk factors, to anticipate manic or depressive periods and to be in a position to limit the risks of these, in particular by having protected relationships. In the long term, long-term psychological support as well as the careful use of appropriate treatments remain the best options to date to minimize the symptoms, especially sexual ones, of the disease.
