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Signal Attenuation as a Rat Model of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

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The interplay between the obsessive-compulsive disorder and sexual function: a systematic review.

Davide Doroldi¹, Lorenzo Cialini¹, Giulia Origlia¹

¹Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.

Sexual Medicine Reviews

|July 2, 2026

Summary

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is linked to sexual dysfunctions, affecting desire, arousal, and orgasm in women. Comprehensive assessment of sexual health is crucial for improving the quality of life for individuals with OCD.

Keywords:

OCD orgasm sexual arousal sexual desire sexual function sexual health

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Area of Science:

Psychiatry
Sexual Medicine
Clinical Psychology

Background:

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.
Sexual functioning is a critical component of overall well-being, yet its relationship with OCD remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

To systematically review the existing literature on the association between obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms and sexual functioning.
To highlight the clinical significance of sexual health in OCD patient care and advocate for integrated assessment and treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

A systematic review adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines was conducted.
Searches were performed across PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for studies published up to February 26, 2026.
Included studies assessed adult participants for OCD symptoms and evaluated aspects of sexual response or genital pain using the Desire, Excitement, Plateau, Orgasm, Resolution model.

Main Results:

Thirteen articles were included in the review.
OCD symptoms were associated with difficulties in sexual desire, arousal, and female orgasm, potentially due to cognitive and behavioral rigidity.
No conclusive evidence was found linking OCD symptoms to male orgasmic function or genital pain, indicating a need for further research.

Conclusions:

A significant association exists between sexual dysfunctions and obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms.
Evaluating sexual functioning in individuals with OCD is essential for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Further research is warranted to develop targeted interventions addressing both OCD psychopathology and sexual health concerns.