Sexual Function, Sexual Dysfunctions, and ADHD: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Background The scientific literature on sexuality among mentally ill patients clearly shows a higher prevalence of sexual disorders for many mental disorders, but little is known about sexuality in individuals suffering from ADHD. Clinicians will often assume that specific difficulties of ADHD are bound to affect sexual functioning. Aim The aim of this study was to provide a review of the literature to gain better knowledge about sexuality in subjects with ADHD and to discuss screening and management of their potential sexual problems. Methods A systematic review of the literature was performed in Pubmed, PsychInfo, and Embase databases. Main Outcome Measures The main outcome measures were sexual function and sexual dysfunctions. Results The studies indicated that subjects with ADHD report more sexual desire, more masturbation frequency, less sexual satisfaction, and more sexual dysfunctions than the general population. Clinical Implications Clinicians working with subjects with ADHD should explore the quality of their sexual life. Strengths & Limitations This is the first systematic review of the sexuality of individuals with ADHD. However, the results are limited by the small number of studies, by the small sample size of many studies, and the potential for bias. Conclusions ADHD is a mental disorder affecting sexual health. Further studies are warranted to learn more about sexuality in subjects with ADHD.

Sexuality in Adults With ADHD: Results of an Online Survey

“…Results indicated that ADHD symptoms had positive moderate associations with hypersexuality in both men and women, a moderate positive association with pornography use in men, and a positive but weak association with pornography use in women ( 38 , 40 ). A review of the literature on ADHD and potential sexual problems indicated that subjects with ADHD report more sexual desire, greater masturbation frequency, less sexual satisfaction, and more sexual dysfunctions than the general population ( 41 ). Although some studies showed a high prevalence of ADHD in hypersexual subjects, current findings do not clearly support the idea that hypersexuality is more frequent in individuals with ADHD ( 41 ).…”

“…A review of the literature on ADHD and potential sexual problems indicated that subjects with ADHD report more sexual desire, greater masturbation frequency, less sexual satisfaction, and more sexual dysfunctions than the general population ( 41 ). Although some studies showed a high prevalence of ADHD in hypersexual subjects, current findings do not clearly support the idea that hypersexuality is more frequent in individuals with ADHD ( 41 ).…”

Self-experienced sexual and reproductive health in young women with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A qualitative interview study

“…The result of this study strengthens earlier suggestions that concentration problems could be a reason for low sexual satisfaction in women with ADHD [ 25 ]. Lack of experience of close relationships among our women, could also lead to a more negative view of sexuality [ 45 ], which is suggested to possibly have a negative impact on sexual satisfaction. This study adds to research by illustrating strategies that could improve concentration during sex, e.g., reducing stimuli in the room, taking medicine before having sex, changing positions often and asking the partner to be attentive to the woman.…”

Paraphilias in ADHD and their Association with Hypersexuality

“…Previous research has suggested that ADHD might also go along with peculiarities in sexual functioning and sexual well-being (12,13). Thereby, a healthy sexuality is closely related to overall well-being and overall quality of life (14).…”