October 18th 2024.
Have you ever experienced unexpected arousal or physical sensations when you were not in the mood? If so, you are not alone. From morning wood to flutters down below, many of us have experienced these uncomfortable and confusing moments. We often laugh them off as just a strange quirk of our anatomy. However, for some people, these responses can be extremely distressing, especially for those with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
These physiological changes in our genitals, known as groinal responses, are a normal part of sexual functioning and are a result of our desires. But for those with OCD, desire doesn't necessarily play a role. Psychosexual and Relationship Psychotherapist Silva Neves explains that for people with OCD, groinal responses can be unwelcome and seemingly come out of nowhere, causing distress and confusion about their sexual identity.
One of the main symptoms of OCD is intrusive thoughts, which are uncontrollable and manifest differently in each person. These thoughts often revolve around societal fears and taboos, such as violence and sexual abuse, and can cause a great deal of anxiety and upset for the individual. It's common for those with OCD to feel like these thoughts reflect who they are, leading them to avoid talking about their problems for fear of being judged.
For those who experience these intrusive thoughts regularly, it's easy to become convinced that they are their own thoughts and that they represent who they are. However, it's important to remember that obsessions are not a reflection of one's personality. People with OCD are highly unlikely to act on these thoughts. In fact, many of us have sexual fantasies that we have no desire to act out in real life.
Silva Neves explains that it's important to differentiate between sexual desire and groinal arousal. Genuine desire is often accompanied by an increased heart rate and is generally a pleasant feeling. Groinal arousal, on the other hand, is often accompanied by anxiety, upset, and hypervigilance. Understanding the difference between these two can help individuals with OCD manage their symptoms and accept their sexuality.
It's also important to remember that intrusive thoughts are not exclusive to OCD. Research has found that even those without any mental health issues can experience intrusive thoughts of an aggressive, religious, or sexual nature. People with OCD just tend to experience them more frequently, intensely, and uncontrollably.
Acceptance is key for those struggling with groinal responses associated with OCD or shame around their sexual desires. Silva Neves suggests reminding ourselves that sexuality is diverse and fluid, and as long as there are no harmful or offensive behaviors, most sexual sensations are okay. It's also important to recognize that there isn't always a clear reason for why we are turned on by certain things and not others.
If these intrusive thoughts and groinal responses begin to negatively impact your life, it's important to seek support. Mental health charity Mind reminds us that it's normal to feel scared about sharing these thoughts with others, but being honest about the intensity of our OCD and how it affects our lives is crucial in receiving the best help for our individual needs.
It's also important to remember that intrusive thoughts thrive on self-doubt and an anxious brain will use any tools at its disposal, including physical tricks, to keep us on high alert. But ultimately, we are in control of our own identities and should not let our bodies dictate who we are. If you have a story to share, please don't hesitate to reach out.
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