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Differential effects of intranasal oxytocin on sexual experiences and partner interactions in couples
Behnia, Behnoush Heinrichs, Markus Bergmann, Wiebke Jung, Stefanie Germann, Janine Schedlowski, Manfred Hartmann, Uwe Kruger, Tillmann H.C.
Behnia, Behnoush
Heinrichs, Markus
Bergmann, Wiebke
Jung, Stefanie
Germann, Janine
Schedlowski, Manfred
Hartmann, Uwe
Kruger, Tillmann H.C.
Abstract
Knowledge about the effects of the neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) on human sexual behaviors and partner interactions remains limited. Based on our previous studies, we hypothesize that OXT should be able to positively influence parameters of sexual function and couple interactions. Employing a naturalistic setting involving 29 healthy heterosexual couples (n = 58 participants), we analyzed the acute effects of intranasally administered OXT (24 IU) on sexual drive, arousal, orgasm and refractory aspects of sexual behavior together with partner interactions. Data were assessed by psychometric instruments (Acute Sexual Experiences Scale, Arizona Sexual Experience Scale) as well as biomarkers, such as cortisol, α-amylase and heart rate. Intranasal OXT administration did not alter “classical” parameters of sexual function, such as sexual drive, arousal or penile erection and lubrication. However, analysis of variance and a hierarchical linear model (HLM) revealed specific effects related to the orgasmic/post-orgasmic interval as well as parameters of partner interactions. According to HLM analysis, OXT increased the intensity of orgasm, contentment after sexual intercourse and the effect of study participation. According to ANOVA analysis, these effects were more pronounced in men. Men additionally indicated higher levels of sexual satiety after sexual intercourse with OXT administration. Women felt more relaxed and subgroups indicated better abilities to share sexual desires or to empathize with their partners. The effect sizes were small to moderate. Biomarkers indicated moderate psychophysiological activation but were not affected by OXT, gender or method of contraception. Using a naturalistic setting, intranasal OXT administration in couples exerted differential effects on parameters of sexual function and partner interactions. These results warrant further investigations, including subjects with sexual and relationship problems.
Keywords
oxytocin, intranasal, couple, partner interaction, sexual intercourse, sexual drive, sexual arousal, orgasm
Date
2014
Type
Journal article
Journal
Hormones and Behavior
Book
Volume
65
Issue
3
Page Range
308-318
Article Number
ACU Department
School of Behavioural and Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
File Access
Controlled