Post-coital tristesse

Postcoital dysphoria (PCD)
Post-sex blues

Nature

Post-coital dysphoria, or post-coital tristesse, is the term used to describe feeling of tearful, sad, anxious, irritable, aggressive, agitated or generally melancholic after sex. Many say sexual climax leaves them empty and despairing. These feelings might be attributed to present psychological distress, childhood sexual abuse or sexual dysfunctions.

Incidence

Researchers from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Australia asked 230 female university students to participate in a survey about their experiences with PCD. The women ranged in age from 18 to 55 with an average age of 26 years. Forty-six percent of the women said they’d experienced PCD in the past. About 5% said they’d had symptoms over the past month. And about 2% reported having PCD “always” or “most of the time.”

Companion research also revealed that 41 per cent of men had suffered from the condition at some point, with between three and four per cent on a regular basis. The study’s results suggest that many men are more sensitive about intimacy than society usually gives credit for.

Claim

Post-coital tristesse is a significant yet often overlooked issue that deserves urgent attention. This emotional aftermath can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, and disconnection, impacting mental health and relationships. Ignoring this phenomenon perpetuates stigma and prevents open discussions about sexual intimacy and emotional well-being. Addressing post-coital tristesse is crucial for fostering healthier relationships and promoting mental health awareness, ultimately leading to more fulfilling and emotionally supportive sexual experiences. We must prioritize this vital conversation.

Counter-claim

Post-coital tristesse is often exaggerated and trivialized as a significant issue. In reality, it reflects a fleeting emotional response rather than a serious psychological problem. Many people experience a range of emotions after intimacy, and this is entirely normal. Instead of labeling it as a concern, we should embrace the complexity of human emotions and focus on fostering open communication in relationships. Overemphasizing this phenomenon distracts from more pressing mental health issues that deserve our attention.