TMI Inquiry

a little bit of a personal question, I know.  but I think it's very valid.
we know that our disorder affects our moods, appetites, opinions, etc.

however, has anyone noticed it affecting their sex drive?  do you participate more or less in sex/masturbation dependent on if you are in a manic or a depressive episode?

[theshadowsrose]

btw, I saw the previous posts on sexual promiscuity.  but my inquiry in more specific to the variance between the episodes.

[Venora Moonwind]

Unless you are having affairs or multiple partners dont worry about the sex whether is masterbation (masturbation) or the regular way. I think our society has got us so hung up on whether we should enjoy sex.
I know the first 18 years of my life I was told sex was not be enjoyed then aI found I found I did enjoy it and I stressed that I was a bad person because I enjoyed it so much.
Finally I decided it was ok to like sex and I have never looked back
Being bi polar I think really makes the sex good. I still have mini manic ( especially during the fullmoon) So I grab my husband and rock our worlds. if he isnt around I take of business myself. but I would rather be with him.
Just my 2 cents
Love Venora

[aadel]

Well, here's a funny one for you.
Yes: sex drive is up in hypomania, down in depression.

But guess what?  I also use sex to self-medicate during the depressive state unless, of course, I'm feeling too low to do anything.

[theshadowsrose]

I attempt to self-medicate w it too.  as stated, I think that may be why it goes up during times of depression.

when manic, I'm too busy doing other things to worry about sex.  XD

[monkeyc]

Im with aadel - Im hypersexual and use masturbation to self medicate - my psychologist tells me its the endorphin release that you are chasing and its common that in a depressive phase I masturbate more not less because I am seeking the pleasure.  I noticed leading up to my suicidal ideation and collapse last month that masturbation was a constant desire for me.

Its perfectly normal unless it becomes and obsession or compulsion - people put far too much emphasis in the western world on masturbation being somehow bad - dont even get me started on the fundamentalist christians and their atttitudes to sex and pleasure which seem to work to warp so many media sources.

sex and masturbation are perfectly normal and pleasurable and as long as its not hurting anyone there is nothing wrong with them.