Sexual problems can stem from symptoms or even ADHD treatment. Certain features of the disorder can have a direct effect on a person’s sexual function, as can side effects of medications prescribed for ADHD.
Impulsivity. Adults with ADHD may impulsively pursue sexual activity. That same impulsiveness may prompt risky sexual behaviors such as unprotected sex. Adults with ADHD may find that their impulsive nature make them poor lovers, as they are anxious to move quickly to the next activity in their lives. “They want to get through it as fast as they can, not considering their partner,” says Constance Wood, PhD, a psychologist in Houston.Inability to pay attention. ADHD adults jump from one thought to the next and find it hard to exist in the moment. They may find that other thoughts keep them from fully enjoying sexual activity. “Sex requires a certain amount of attention and good judgment,” Wood says. “Problems with their lives race through their heads while they are having sex and distract them.” People with ADHD may even find themselves unable to complete the sex act as they become diverted and lose interest.Hyperactivity. Researchers believe that hyperactivity can affect the sex drives of people who suffer from the disorder, creating a high level of arousal that leads to frantic sexual pursuit in order to relieve their inner tensions. Adult ADHD patients experiencing hyperactive sexuality may find themselves drawn to edgier sexual practices such as fetishism and exhibitionism.
Some ADHD medications can have an effect on a person’s sex drive, as well. Antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) used to treat ADHD can cause reduced sexual desire. ADHD stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin) also can affect a person’s libido, although reports vary regarding that effect — some sources say stimulants increase libido, while others say they reduce sex drive and cause erectile dysfunction.
Overcoming ADHD-Related Sexual Problems
Solving sexual issues brought on by ADHD often involves successfully treating the disorder itself. ADHD treatments include:
Medication. Finding a medication that can quell the impulses and hyperactivity of ADHD without affecting your sex drive may be a process of trial and error, but ultimately you should be better able to focus on — and enjoy — sex. “If you’re taking your medication, that’s certainly going to help sexually and otherwise,” Wood says.Therapy. Different types of therapy can help adults with ADHD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help you better understand how adult ADHD is controlling your behavior and take steps to prevent it from recurring. Psychotherapy can help you get to the root of the disorder and the damage it has done to your life. “Psychotherapy allows [patients to] talk about what’s lying underneath, the problems or difficulties with the marriage and themselves,” Wood says.
Regardless of the sexual problem, be it low libido or an overactive sex drive, adults with ADHD can find a solution through any number of personalized treatment plans.
