Sleep apnea and sexuality : consequences

Disorders of sleep apnea are manifested in most cases by extreme fatigue during the day, including daytime drowsiness, irritability and difficulty sleeping. focus on their activities. But recent studies show that sleep apnea is likely to decrease libido in many patients. In addition, the impact of sleep apnea on sexual desire would be the same in men and women.

Sleep apnea and libido

Sleep apnea is multiple involuntary interruptions of breathing during sleep throughout the night. These pauses in breathing can last several seconds (30 seconds for some) and generally lead to micro-awakenings. These affect the quality of sleep. The circadian cycle is thus disrupted.

The direct result of sleep apnea is therefore a great fatigue felt during the day and a lack of restful sleep. A significant lack of sleep can generate a drop in libido, which to be at its optimal level, requires that the person be well rested. Sleep apnea therefore has a direct effect on the level of libido. In addition, in men, sexual desire depends on the rate of secretion of a hormone known as testosterone . However, this increases particularly during certain phases of deep sleep.

Sleep apnea alters these phases by micro-awakenings, preventing the body from secreting this hormone. The testosterone level does not reach the level necessary for a good libido. Sexual life is significantly disturbed. This situation often has the consequence of installing conflicts within the couple.

Sleep apnea, erectile dysfunction and swollen clitoris

In addition to suffering from a decrease in sexual desire and libido, patients with sleep apnea observe often erectile dysfunction in men and poor vaginal lubrication in women.

Scientists have known for several years that multiple erections (male) and clitoral swelling (female) occur during REM sleep phases. These last about 25 minutes and are repeated four to five times a night. Their role is to ensure the proper functioning of the genitals. Good elasticity of the penis, optimal sensitivity of the clitoris as well as sufficient vaginal lubrication.

In people with apnea, the duration of these sleep phases is shortened, or even non-existent in the most severe cases. These mini-exercises cannot therefore take place. Over time, erectile dysfunction of the penis becomes more and more frequent, and a lack of sensitivity in the clitoris affects the quality of sexual intercourse.

In addition, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and clitoral sensitivity are now among the clinical signs of sleep apnea syndrome. These symptoms are also accepted by health insurance for the reimbursement of the treatment of SAS by continuous positive pressure.

To conclude, if you feel that your sex drive is down, do not hesitate to consult your doctor to prescribe screening tests for apnea. sleep.

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