Psychedelics can have a multifaceted impact on sexual wellness and function. There is limited research in this particular field. However, we do know that the effects can vary significantly depending on the type of psychedelic, dosage, individual psychological and physical health, set (mindset), setting (environment), and the intention behind the experience.
“…Our work…indicates there may be a lasting positive impact on sexual functioning after their psychedelic experience, which could potentially have impacts on psychological well-being.”
— Tommaso Barba, PhD student, Centre for Psychedelic Research
Read on to learn how psychedelics may affect sexual experiences.
First Scientific Study on Psychedelics and Sexual Functioning
There are very few studies that have directly looked at how psychedelics affect sexual experiences.
A 2024 mixed-methods study was the first one that looked at the post-acute effects of psychedelics on self-reported sexual functioning.
Bruna Giribaldi, an author of the article, told Imperial College London:
“We were interested in finding out whether psychedelics could influence people’s experiences of sexuality in a positive way, as it appeared from existing anecdotal evidence. Sexual side effects are often underreported in clinical trials, as people tend to not directly report them unless explicitly asked. Aware of this, we were determined to thoroughly investigate this area.”
Small Controlled Clinical Trial
The researchers combined data from a small controlled clinical trial and a large naturalistic study.
In the small clinical trial, study clinicians included 59 participants for major depressive disorder with either psilocybin or antidepressant escitalopram, which is a type of SSRI.
The results showed that those in the psilocybin group were more likely to report improvements in sexual functioning compared to the escitalopram group. These betterments included sexual interest, arousal, satisfaction, and communication with their partner. Those in the escitalopram group reported decreases in all these areas except satisfaction in physical appearance, which improved.
Reports of sexual dysfunction were lower for psilocybin participants compared to the escitalopram participants (13% versus 59%, respectively).
Large Naturalistic Study
This study included 261 participants who stated they were planning to take psychedelics. Online surveys were collected before and two times after the experience.
The results showed that the participants had improvements in sexual satisfaction and functioning for up to six months after the psychedelic experience. These include increases in sexual pleasure, improved communication during sex with their partner, and higher satisfaction with both their own physical appearance and their partner’s.
The study concluded that their results “imply a potential positive effect on post-acute sexual functioning and highlight the need for more research on this.”
Tommaso Barba, the first author and PhD student in the Centre for Psychedelic Research, told Imperial College London:
“It’s important to stress our work does not focus on what happens to sexual functioning while people are on psychedelics, and we are not talking about perceived ‘sexual performance,’ but it does indicate there may be a lasting positive impact on sexual functioning after their psychedelic experience, which could potentially have impacts on psychological well-being.”
Microdosing and Couples Therapy
A small qualitative study published in 2022 explored the experiences of four couples who were microdosing psychedelics. Although some couples used MDMA, the study did not specify which substances were used by each couple. Results showed improvements in several key areas:
- Sexual self-efficacy (confidence and control over sexual performance)
- Sexual exploration
- Relationship satisfaction
- Sexual desire
- Communication
Additionally, couples observed reduced stress and performance anxiety, which improved their physical and sexual well-being. While researchers found that higher doses of MDMA impaired sexual functioning, couples still reported intense emotional and sensory experiences. Although the study’s sample size is small, the findings suggest that microdosing psychedelics could be a valuable tool in psychedelic therapy for enhancing sexual function and strengthening relationships.
Potential Effect of Psychedelics on Sexual Experiences
Despite the lack of research in this particular area, here are some potential influences of psychedelics on sexual experiences.
Promoting Emotional Connection and Intimacy
Psychedelics like MDMA, often referred to as an “entactogen,” can increase feelings of falling in love, emotional closeness, and trust between partners. These developments can lead to deeper emotional intimacy and a heightened sense of connection during sexual activity.
Many psychedelics lower psychological defenses. This reduction allows individuals to feel more comfortable showing vulnerability and communicating openly with their partners about boundaries, desires, and insecurities, which can improve sexual relationships.
Increasing Mind-Body Awareness
Substances like LSD, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), and mescaline can heighten bodily awareness and help individuals become more attuned to their physical sensations. This increased awareness can improve sexual pleasure and help individuals identify and overcome physical or emotional blocks during sexual activity. When amplified, this awareness can potentially enhance physical pleasure and make sexual experiences more vivid and immersive.
Conversely, some people have reported experiencing altered body image or a sense of dissociation from their bodies while taking psychedelics. This effect may enhance, complicate, or diminish sexual pleasure.
Ego Dissolution and Spiritual Experiences
High doses of psychedelics can lead to a state of ego dissolution, where the boundaries between self and others blur. This blurring can create a profound sense of unity or oneness with a partner, making the sexual experience feel more holistic and fulfilling.
Psychedelics can help open the door to viewing sexuality as a spiritual practice, where sex becomes a way to explore deeper aspects of consciousness and connection with a partner. This shift can transform the sexual experience into something more meaningful and profound.
Impact on Libido and Sexual Function
There can be a mixed effect on libido. A small study published in 2010 looked at the sexual effects among heterosexual female users of MDMA. The women reported increases in sexual experiences such as arousal, orgasmic intensity, and desire and sensual experiences such as feeling love, affection, deep emotions, and emotional closeness.
Anxiety and Sexual Function
Research has shown that psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA reduce anxiety and promote a state of relaxation, which can positively impact sexual function by reducing performance anxiety or fear of intimacy.
On the flip side, if someone enters a psychedelic experience with unresolved sexual anxieties or insecurities, these feelings might be amplified, potentially leading to a negative sexual experience.
Consent and Boundary Setting
It’s crucial that partners give unambiguous, informed consent before engaging in sexual activity while under the influence of psychedelics, as these substances can impair decision-making abilities.
Establishing boundaries and intentions before a psychedelic experience is essential to ensure that any sexual activity is consensual and aligned with both partners’ desires.
While psychedelics have the potential to enhance sexual wellness, they can also pose risks if not approached with care and intention. Each person’s experience will be unique, and it’s vital to approach psychedelic use with mindfulness, respect for the substances, and a clear understanding of potential outcomes.
Learn More About Psychedelics, Sexual Experiences, and Relationships
- Read Can Psychedelic Therapy Help to Improve Sexual Function?
- Watch Watch Dr. Anne Wagner Talk About MDMA-Assisted Couples Therapy
- Learn from Dr. Maloof About Social Connection and Psychedelic Medicines for Sexual Function
- Learn to Navigate Dating and Psychedelic Use in Relationships as a Psychonaut
- How to Max Out the Breadth and Depth of Love with MDMA Therapy for PTSD in Couples
Psychedelic Therapy and Sexual Dysfunction
Psychedelic therapy has shown the potential to address underlying psychological and emotional issues that can contribute to sexual dysfunction. Here are some ways psychedelic therapy might enhance sexual functioning:
Therapeutic Potential
Emerging research suggests that psychedelic-assisted therapy might be effective in treating sexual dysfunctions linked to psychological issues, such as erectile dysfunction or low libido related to trauma or depression.
Through the therapeutic process, individuals and couples can rebuild trust, which is essential for a healthy sexual relationship. Growth such as this is particularly beneficial for those who have experienced betrayal or relational trauma.
Psychedelic therapy can encourage a more mindful approach to sex, where individuals are more present and engaged with their bodies and their partners. This mindfulness can lead to more fulfilling sexual experiences.
Healing Sexual Trauma
Psychedelic therapy, particularly with substances like MDMA, has been effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including trauma related to sexual abuse or assault. By processing and healing these traumatic experiences, individuals may find relief from sexual dysfunctions, such as low libido, pain during sex, or difficulty trusting a partner.
For some, the altered state of consciousness induced by psychedelics can facilitate the healing of sexual trauma or negative sexual conditioning, leading to a healthier sexual expression and function.
Psychedelics can facilitate the release of repressed emotions and memories, allowing individuals to confront and work through past experiences that have negatively impacted their sexual wellness.
Reducing Anxiety and Depression
Psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA can reduce anxiety, including performance anxiety, which is a common cause of sexual dysfunction. By alleviating the fear and stress associated with sexual performance, individuals may experience improved sexual function and satisfaction.
The mood-enhancing properties of psychedelics can lead to an overall improvement in mental health, which, in turn, closely links to sexual wellness. People with depression or anxiety often experience low libido or other sexual dysfunctions, and by addressing these mental health issues, psychedelics may indirectly boost sexual functioning.
Reframing Negative Beliefs About Sex
Psychedelic therapy can help individuals confront and reframe negative beliefs and conditioning around sex that societal, cultural, and religious influences may have instilled. By breaking down these harmful narratives, individuals may experience greater sexual freedom and a healthier relationship with their sexuality.
Psychedelics can promote a deep sense of self-acceptance, which is crucial for sexual confidence and satisfaction. This self-acceptance can lead to a more positive body image, reduced shame, and an overall healthier approach to sex.
Encouraging Personal Growth and Exploration
Psychedelic therapy often leads to personal insights and growth, empowering individuals to take control of their sexual health and make positive changes. Such changes might include exploring new aspects of their sexuality, setting healthier boundaries, or pursuing more satisfying sexual relationships.
Psychedelic experiences can encourage openness to new experiences and perspectives, which can translate into a more experimental and curious approach to sex. This transformation may help individuals and couples break free from routine and explore new areas of their sexuality.
Long-Term Integration
The insights gained during a psychedelic experience can be integrated into everyday life through therapy, potentially leading to long-term improvements in sexual wellness. Through continued therapy, self-reflection, and mindfulness practices, individuals can maintain and build upon the sexual benefits experienced during psychedelic sessions.
Psychedelic therapy offers a promising avenue for improving sexual functioning, particularly for those whose sexual issues are rooted in psychological or emotional challenges.
By addressing these underlying factors, individuals can experience a more fulfilling and empowered sexual life. However, it’s important to approach psychedelic therapy with the guidance of trained professionals and within a legal and supportive framework.
Find a licensed provider in our leading vetted psychedelic therapy directory today!
References
Barba, T., Kettner, H., Radu, C., Peill, J. M., Roseman, L., Nutt, D. J., Erritzoe, D., Carhart-Harris, R., & Giribaldi, B. (2024). Psychedelics and sexual functioning: a mixed-methods study. Scientific Reports, 14(1), 2181. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-49817-4.
Jacobs, L., Banbury, S., & Lusher, J. (2022). Micro-dosing psychedelics as a plausible adjunct to psychosexual and couple’s therapy: a qualitative insight. Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1080/14681994.2022.2044466.
Justyna Holka-Pokorska. (2023). Can research on entactogens contribute to a deeper understanding of human sexuality? Pharmacological Reports, 75(6), 1381–1397. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43440-023-00552-7.
Kennedy, K. E. P., Grov, C., & Parsons, J. T. (2010). Ecstasy and Sex Among Young Heterosexual Women: A Qualitative Analysis of Sensuality, Sexual Effects, and Sexual Risk Taking. International Journal of Sexual Health, 22(3), 155–166. https://doi.org/10.1080/19317611003745058
O’Hare, R. (2024, February 7). Psychedelic experiences linked with improved sexual function | Imperial News | Imperial College London. Imperial News. https://www.imperial.ac.uk/news/251313/psychedelic-experiences-linked-with-improved-sexual/.
