Vaginal dryness and anti-depressants

By Anonymous March 11, 2012 - 7:11pm

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I've been on the same anti-depressant for at least 6-7 years now (fluoxetine aka generic prozac). For years before that, I was on various other antidepressants. I'm now 22. I had my first sexual experience when I was 20 and have had only a few (3) partners since then. One of those partners was a long-time boyfriend. The point is that I've never experienced an orgasm and I have a complete inability to self lubricate. With my ex it wasn't much of a problem physically since he had a smaller-than-average penis, but my most recent partner had a larger-than-average penis and I came out of the encounter very sore and sensitive. Besides the physical problem, I'm afraid that the guys I'm with will be hurt/think I'm not into it/not enjoy it because I don't appear aroused to them. Besides that, I want to enjoy it!

I know anti-depressants, especially prozac, can lead to sexual dysfunction in both males and females. The lack of orgasm is bad enough, but the pain associated is becoming more noticeable. I've also read on another site that there is an STI that is in the same family as chlamydia called something that ends with the word genitalia. If I've been tested for chlamydia and am clean, does that eliminate this other STI as a possibility?

Is there anything I can do? I know switching medications is an option, and I have discussed that with my psychiatrist, but the switch would mean paying more for the medication. I also know lubricant is an option, and I'll use it if I have to, but I think having that conversation would be awfully awkward. Is there any other kind of home remedy to try? I'm not against either of the above options, I'm just trying to see what all is out there.

Thanks so much

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Anonymous

Hi anon,

Welcome to Empowher. The inability to achieve orgasm can be caused by a number of factors, both physical and psychological in nature. Lack of adequate stimulation, acute stress, anxiety, as well as depression and relationship problems can all interfere with the ability to experience orgasm. Many antidepressants, including Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil have a high propensity to cause such problems. This might be the cause for the lack of lubrication. It's definitely important to talk to your doctor about this. He might suggest changing your medication.

empowher.com/groups/menopause/posts/vaginal-dryness

Best,

Daisy

March 12, 2012 - 4:00am