Chronic stress, depression, and anxiety may all contribute to sexual dysfunction. When stress levels go up, hormones like cortisol and epinephrine are released, which can diminish sex drive and libido. Women who experience chronic high stress have lower levels of genital arousal, higher levels of cortisol, and more distraction during moments of sexual arousal.[1] Even a brief period of acute stress can diminish sexual arousal.[2] Long-term stress due to sexual abuse, worries about pregnancy or infertility, and the increased demands of becoming a mother are also sources of social and psychological stress that may contribute to sexual dysfunction.[3]
How does stress influence female sexual dysfunction?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Chronic stress, depression, and anxiety can lead to female sexual dysfunction by increasing cortisol and epinephrine levels, which reduce sex drive and genital arousal. Additionally, long-term stressors such as sexual abuse, concerns about pregnancy or infertility, and the pressures of motherhood can further exacerbate these issues.