Although there is a significant lack of scientific research that explains the correlation between obesity and sexual performance, initial studies point to the negative effect of obesity on intercourse, especially among women. The drastic changes in one’s physique, sexual appetite, and performance can greatly lower one’s self-esteem and even mental health. A healthy diet, avoiding illegal drugs, and even surgeries are some ways to effectively lose weight.
Defining Sexuality
A person’s sexual behaviors and lifestyle make up one’s sexuality. Each individual has distinct sexuality from the others due to differences in upbringing and environment. Changes to one’s physique even affect sexuality—obesity triggers libido levels and self-esteem to drop. This touchy subject requires a healthy discussion with non-biased health professionals.
Obesity: an Overview
Commonly referred to as having excess body fat and a body mass index (BMI) beyond 30, obesity in Australia has now arrived at an epidemic level. Multiple health conditions are associated with obesity: bone, heart, and kidney problems to name a few. Its negative impact on daily activities can manifest in terms of low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and sleeping difficulties. Numerous studies have been to analyze the cause and how best to control obesity to avoid complications in the future. So far, most treatments are given in combination. Some of these are weight loss drugs, lifestyle changes, meal replacement programs, and even weight-loss surgeries.
How Obesity is Associated with Sexuality
Obesity and sexuality are research topics that are mostly being studied separately. The very few existing studies that focus on the connection of the two are insufficient to establish a final and unanimous conclusion among the experts. There are obvious societal biases in favor of thin people being desirable over those who are not. This may even trigger obese individuals to spiral into various types of mental health problems. In addition, obese people are prone to lower sexual drive and satisfaction. The effect of obesity on male sexual dysfunction is more understandable as compared to that of women. For males, evidence regarding erectile dysfunction caused by obesity has been verified. Societal discrimination, psychological, and health problems linked to obesity have prompted scientific experts to research, create, and offer treatment for these individuals.
In the same way, obesity can be caused by a deep-rooted mental health condition as a coping or defense mechanism. For those who have experienced sexual abuse, obese individuals may have purposely gained weight to avoid both the attention of people in general and create an undesirable image to ward off predators. Others have unconsciously gained weight due to comfort eating and binge eating as a coping mechanism. Simultaneous guidance from weight management health professionals and psychiatrists is likely required to effectively address this multilayered issue.
Scientific Explanation
Some of the general findings that multiple studies have agreed on are the following:
- Multiple sex-related issues such as lack of sex drive, low libido, weak stamina, poor sexual performance, and avoidance of intimacy, in general, occur more frequently among obese individuals
- Diminishing quality of sex life correlates with a higher BMI
- Obese women have higher chances of facing more negative effects in their attitude towards sex as opposed to men, partly because of the discriminating weight and appearance standards that society places on women. Meanwhile, obese men tend to suffer from declining sexual performance.
Managing Sexual Dysfunction
Even with the help of medical experts and healthcare professionals, treating sexual dysfunction in obese people can still be tough. A doctor’s assessment is required to accurately identify the problem before a possible set of treatments will be given. Both obese and non-obese are equally vulnerable to having sexual identity and function problems. It is important to muster the courage to take that first step in seeking medical help.
- Self-acceptance. Difficulties of accepting one’s body image can be treated through therapy. Psychiatrists and therapists can assist an individual in their journey towards self-acceptance. Among the most common and effective methods recommended by doctors is cognitive and behavioral therapy. These methods are used in the hopes of correcting harmful habits and destructive thoughts with healthier, more productive, and better behaviors. It is a crucial step for conquering deep-seated sexuality problems.
- Therapies. Specifically tailored to cater to the needs of individuals with sexual problems apply to both obese and non-obese groups. Therapists establish programs that may involve improving sexual confidence and communication. Therapy sessions may be conducted by group or couple therapy. Emphasis is placed on constant communication with your significant other about issues especially surrounding body weight.
- Weight loss management. Several weight-loss treatment options are available to effectively improve one’s quality of sex life. Tremendous progress in overall physical and mental health, self-esteem, and quality of life are highly associated with losing weight.
Possible Effects of Treatments
There is a significant limitation in terms of existing studies conducted regarding the correlation between obesity treatments and improvement of sexuality. Hypothesis and initial results show that weight loss has a positive result on one’s quality of sex life, self-esteem, physiological functions, mental well-being, eating patterns, and social relationships. The more weight is lost, the greater and more fulfilling the experience will be for the person.
However, weight loss treatments via surgical means and their results remain uncertain. Some studies show affirmative results. One study focused on obese women who went through gastric banding reported that the majority experienced a significant improvement in their sex life, sexual satisfaction, and sexual performance after the surgery. Others narrated the progress in their social relationships. However, the already declining state of sexual-related functions can further degenerate. Among the many factors that can contribute to this are instability in relationships, identity issues, gaining weight, and noticeable remnants of an obese body such as hanging and flabby skin. As for males, the good news is that non-surgical ways of losing weight are enough to treat erectile dysfunction and enhancing various sexual functions such as arousal, libido, and satisfaction among women. Numerous scientific studies have verified the authenticity of this claim.
