MDMA and Human Sexual Function
This retrospective survey study (n=26) examined self-reported sexuality under the influence of MDMA (≈125mg) compared to sober state and found that it increased emotional closeness, enhanced receptivity to being sexual, and was often chosen as a sexual enhancer by the participants, but it did not stimulate the desire to initiate sex and decreased erectile ability in 46% of the male participants.
Authors
- Buffum, J.
- Moser, C.
Published
Abstract
Although many MDMA users describe sexual enhancement from MDMA. there are no published reports of studies that systematically examine the effects of MDMA on sexual function. In an unpublished study of 29 patients undergoing MDMA-augmented psychotherapy, Greer (1983) reported one occurrence of anorgasmia the day after ingestion and one occurrence of decreased sexual desire lasting one or two days. One couple in the study reported enhanced sexual enjoyment following an MDMA session, partly due to delayed orgasm.
Research Summary of 'MDMA and Human Sexual Function'
Introduction
Earlier reports and abundant anecdotal accounts suggested that MDMA users often experience enhanced sexual feelings, but published, systematic investigations of MDMA's effects on human sexual function were lacking. The extracted text notes a small unpublished psychotherapy sample in which isolated sexual effects (one report of anorgasmia, one of decreased desire, and one couple reporting enhanced enjoyment) were observed, highlighting the need for broader survey data. Buffum and Moser designed a study to fill that gap by surveying people who had used MDMA about its effects on sexual behaviour, orgasm, erectile function, emotional closeness and any therapeutic effects on sexual inhibition. The investigators used an anonymous self-rating questionnaire distributed in the San Francisco Bay Area to collect descriptive data about users' experiences with MDMA and sex.
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Study Details
- Study Typeindividual
- Journal
- Compound
- APA Citation
Buffum, J., & Moser, C. (1986). MDMA and Human Sexual Function. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 18(4), 355-359. https://doi.org/10.1080/02791072.1986.10472369
Cited By (3)
Papers in Blossom that reference this study
Zemishlany, Z., Aizenberg, D., Weizman, A. · European Psychiatry (2020)
Bershad, A. K., Miller, M. A., Baggot, M. J. et al. · Journal of Psychopharmacology (2016)
McElrath, K. · Substance Use and Misuse (2009)
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