Post-Sex Blues are Real: Up to 40 Percent of Menโ Experience ‘Post-Nut Phenomenon’
LONDON – โA surprising number of men experience a temporary โdipโ in mood following sexual activity, a phenomenon increasingly recognized as “post-nut phenomenon” (PCD), or colloquially,โ the “post-sex blues.” Affectingโค an estimated 40 percent of men, PCD isn’t โa sign of dissatisfaction with a partner or theโ encounter itself, but a complex neurochemical response that can leave individuals feeling sad, agitated, or even empty.
While frequently enough dismissed or shrouded in silence, understanding PCD is gaining traction as experts highlight its prevalence and potential impact on emotionalโ wellbeing. The experience, which can occur irrespective of orgasm, stems from hormonal fluctuations and a shiftโฃ from intimacy โคto detachment, leaving some vulnerable to temporary mood changes. It’s a common โคexperience that’s โคnow being openly discussed, helping to destigmatize what was once โa largely unspoken issue.
Sex and relationshipsโ psychotherapist Gigi Engle explained the experience, stating: “PCD – frequently enough referred to as the ‘post-sex blues’ – is when someone experiences feelings of sadness or agitation afterโฃ consensual sex, even if the sexual encounter was loving and pleasurable.” She further clarified that PCD “can happen whether orgasm was experienced or not, but often โฃis a comorbidity โwith orgasm.”
The โrapid changes in hormones like โขoxytocin and dopamine after orgasm are believed to contributeโ to these feelings. Oxytocin, frequently enough called the โข”love hormone,” โขsurges during intimacy, creating โfeelings of bonding and pleasure. Though, โthis surge is followed by a rapidโข decline, โpotentially leading โto a โtemporary mood shift. The transition fromโข the closeness of sexual intimacy to โa more detached state can also trigger feelings of vulnerability.
For those experiencing PCD regularlyโค or โfinding the feelings particularlyโค troubling, professional help is available. Neuro Wellness brand recommends exploringโค options suchโค as therapy sessions with aโข clinical psychologist or psychiatrist, group counselling led by a trained mental โคhealth โprofessional, or utilizing online resourcesโข like self-help groups and chat rooms.Recognizing PCD as a legitimate experience is the first step towards addressingโ it and prioritizing emotional wellbeing.
