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What is Postcoital Dysphoria and the need for its awareness?

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mtvnishedh
What is Postcoital Dysphoria and the need for its awareness?

There are several concepts related to the human mind that are not fully understood even today. Postcoital dysphoria is one of them. This condition is not openly discussed because there is lack of scientific explanation to back it and its cause remains a mystery in the world of research.  

 

What is Postcoital Dysphoria?  

PCD or post-sex blues is a phenomenon where an individual feels emotion of sadness, anxiety, irritability, and disorientation after being involved in consensual intercourse. This condition can affect both men and women, regardless of their sexual orientation and can last for minutes or even hours. PCD is not associated with the level of satisfaction during intercourse. A person may show similar symptoms even if they attained physical pleasure or orgasm. 

 

The exact cause of PCD is not fully understood to date, with lack of scientific studies, but it has been linked with various emotional, physical, and psychological factors. A few theories suggest the following as aiding to the cause of postcoital dysphoria:  

 

  • Hormonal changes: A drop in hormone levels, such as testosterone and estrogen, after sexual activity can lead to feelings of sadness or anxiety. 
  • Unresolved psychological issues: Sexual activity can trigger unresolved emotional issues, such as feelings of guilt or shame, leading to postcoital dysphoria. 
  • Disconnection from a partner: The feeling of disconnection from a partner after sex can lead to feelings of disappointment or sadness. 
  • Cultural or societal factors: Societal expectations and cultural norms around sexuality can also play a role in the development of postcoital dysphoria. 
  • Substance use: Substance use, such as alcohol or drugs, before or during sexual activity can affect a person's emotional state and increase the risk of postcoital dysphoria. 

 

It is important to understand that postcoital dysphoria can have multiple causes and can vary from person to person, depending on their state of mind. In some cases, a combination of factors may be contributing to this condition's development. It should be taken into consideration that occasional negative feelings after sex can be normal, but when they persist for a long time, it can severely affect a person’s well-being and their mental health by showing signs of long-term anxiety and depression.  

 

Which brings us to why is there a need to create awareness around PCD: 

 

  1. Improved understanding: Raising awareness about PCD can help increase understanding of this condition and reduce stigma around sexual health and emotions. 
  2. Improved support: By bringing attention to PCD, people who experience this condition can receive better support from friends, family, and healthcare providers. 
  3. Increased research: Increased awareness about PCD can lead to more research on the causes, risk factors, and treatment options, which can help improve the lives of those affected by this condition. 
  4. Better mental health: PCD can have a significant impact on a person's mental health, and increased awareness about this condition can help people better manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. 
  5. Normalization of experiences: By discussing PCD openly, people who experience this condition can feel less isolated and understand that they are not alone in their experiences. 


Overall, creating awareness about PCD can help individuals who experience this condition to better understand their experiences and seek the support they need to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. 

 

Here are some ways that can help a person navigate their way through PCD: 

 

  1. Talk to someone: Having someone to confide in can help you feel less isolated and provide a supportive outlet for your feelings 
  2. Practice self-care: Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being can help reduce the impact of postcoital dysphoria. This can include getting enough sleep, engaging in physical activity, and eating a healthy diet 
  3. Seek professional help: If your symptoms are severe or interfering with your daily life, consider talking to a mental health professional. They can help you identify the underlying causes of your postcoital dysphoria and provide appropriate treatment options 
  4. Maintain open communication with your partner: If you are experiencing postcoital dysphoria in the context of a relationship, it is important to have open and honest communication with your partner. This can help you feel more connected and reduce feelings of disconnection after sexual activity 

 

To understand more about sexual health, relationships, and open communication watch MTV Nishedh Season 2. All episodes are streaming now on Fully Faltoo YouTube Channel. If you or anyone you know is seeking help with abortion/contraception/family planning, call on 18001806789 today.  



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