Sexuality is a very intimate topic. It is therefore rarely addressed with a dermatologist. In this article, we aim to destigmatize and provide you with important information and practical takeaways. Every partnership faces challenges at some point and can be strained. While your relationship may not be explicitly influenced by atopic dermatitis, if you find yourself touched by this topic, you are not alone.
Issues in the sexual life are not uncommon
In fact, nearly one in three individuals with atopic dermatitis reports limitations in their sexual health. Among those affected by severe atopic dermatitis, even 60% report having experienced problems with their intimacy at some point.
The possibility to have pleasurable and safe sexual experiences is clearly encompassed by the World Health Organization (WHO) under sexual health. Often, we associate sexual health only with sexually transmitted diseases. However, the WHO also considers the emotional, social, and psychological aspects of sexuality. These are particularly relevant when we talk about atopic dermatitis because, of course, atopic dermatitis is not a contagious or sexually transmitted disease.
The following factors are often associated with atopic dermatitis and can affect sexual health:
- Physical appearance
- Lower self-confidence
- Unpleasant sensations in erogenous zones due to itching and pain
- Coexisting allergies
- Coexisting psychological problems
Exchanging affection under challenging conditions
Our skin connects us to the external world. Through the sense of touch, we learn where our body begins and where it ends. We perceive touches from other people – an important experience for our emotional well-being. Through touch, affection, and sex, the body releases the hormone oxytocin. Oxytocin is known as the ‘cuddle hormone.’ It creates an enhanced and trusting bond, reduces stress, and alleviates fears.
But when the skin itches, flakes, hurts in every inch, or even bleeds, is intimacy even conceivable? A wounded self-confidence and self-esteem, shame, or fear of rejection can become obstacles to close physical contact. For someone with atopic dermatitis, undressing in front of another person can already cause discomfort.
Acceptance and self-care are crucial initial steps for a fulfilling sex life. Those who embrace and accept themselves, including their skin, usually find themselves more attractive.
Severe atopic dermatitis can decrease sexual desire
Sexual desire and satisfaction are crucial components of sexual health. Especially patients with severe atopic dermatitis report a lower libido due to their skin condition. In more severe cases of atopic dermatitis, sensitive areas such as the breasts or genital organs are often affected by eczema. This can make intimate physical contact uncomfortable.
Atopic dermatitis can impact the sexual lives of both men and women. However, it sometimes manifests differently. Hand eczema, for example, can be more burdensome for men in terms of experiencing sexual desire and satisfaction. Additionally, there are indications that erectile dysfunction may occur more frequently with atopic dermatitis. Since erectile dysfunction in men is not uncommon in general and the connections to atopic dermatitis are still unclear, further research is needed.
Communication is crucial
The most important approach to dealing with the various and sensitive issues in sexual health is communication. Often, your partner simply doesn’t know what it feels like to have atopic dermatitis-prone skin. Communication is, therefore, even more crucial. If you find that you can’t engage in physical contact due to your skin condition, try to explain it to your partner. Talk about how you feel, what is burdensome, and what is enjoyable.
