Can anxiety cause reduced vaginal sensation?
Anxiety can cause muscle tension, altered blood flow, and increased body awareness, which may reduce vaginal sensation or pleasure during sex.
Detailed Medical Explanation
When anxious, the body’s stress response triggers pelvic muscle tightening, reduced vaginal lubrication, and decreased focus on pleasurable sensations. Over time, anxiety can lower arousal and sexual response. Relaxation techniques, open communication, and professional therapy can help. NHS: Anxiety.
Clinical Context
Managing anxiety often improves sexual wellbeing and may restore normal sensation over time.
Evidence-Based Approaches
NHS and NICE recommend addressing mental health as part of holistic sexual care (NICE CKS).