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Learning About Sexual Masochism Disorder: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options

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sexual masochism disorder

Not the same things excite everyone sexually. Some find pleasure in love, while others may find it in pain or beating.

Sexual Masochism Disorder (SMD) is a sexual dysfunction or disorder arising from sexual masochism. It involves acts of beating, pain, humiliation, and even abuse. 

One may be diagnosed with SMD when it interferes with daily life or causes distress.

This article will help you better understand Sexual Masochism Disorder and its symptoms, causes, and treatments.

What is Sexual Masochism Disorder

Sexual Masochism Disorder is a paraphilic disorder. It can cause distress, impair daily functioning, or put others or themselves at risk.

Some may think of it as a mental illness. It is important to talk about mental health problems in such cases. 

SMD may involve acts in which a person feels sexually excited from beating, humiliated, bound, or otherwise abused. 

DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) distinguishes Paraphilias and paraphilic disorders.

Paraphilias are atypical sexual practices that may not necessarily be disordered, whereas paraphilic disorders are diseases.

It is important to know, understand, and respect your boundaries and your partners while practicing sexual masochism.

Recommended Article:
Read this article if you want to know more about how your psychological conditions can affect you sexual health: How Psychological Disorders Affect Sexual Functioning.

Sexual Masochism Disorder symptoms

Common symptoms of Sexual Masochism Disorder may include:

  • Sexual arousal, urges, or desires involving pain or humiliation
  • Acting on such urges
  • Such behavior causes distress or impairs the ability to function properly in everyday life
Did you know?
Asphyxiophilia (Autoerotic Asphyxiation) is a subtype of SMD in which a person partially chokes or strangles themselves. They may also ask a partner to do so.

Sexual Masochism Disorder causes

The cause of SMD is unknown. Possibly, different things trigger sexual masochism in different people.

Studies indicate that people who have masochistic urges have had them since childhood. But research does not support that childhood trauma or abuse can trigger such behavior.

It is not necessary that SMD may indicate underlying mental health issues.

Sexual Masochism Disorder treatment

Talk therapySource: mixetto_from_Getty_Images
Talk therapy

Sexual masochism usually does not cause distress or impairment and does not require treatment.

Treatment may be given if the person having masochist urges is troubled by them or asks for treatment.

Treatment of Sexual Masochism Disorder may involve therapy and medications. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), group therapy, support groups, or relaxation therapy can help with this disorder.

Medications may involve Antidepressants, typically Serotonin Selective Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).

Antiandrogen drugs may also work as they can lower Testosterone levels and sexual urges.

Warning:
Consult a medical professional before taking Antidepressants. They can cause adverse effects such as low libido or difficulty having an erection.

Summing up

Sexual masochism involves atypical sexual practices in which a person may experience arousal from pain, beating, or humiliation.

It is not necessarily a disorder that needs treatment. But a person may need treatment for SMD when it impairs their ability to function in everyday life or causes distress.

The cause of Sexual Masochism Disorder is unknown. Research does not support that childhood abuse or trauma may trigger such behavior. Different things may trigger masochistic behavior in different people.

Sexual masochism does not necessarily indicate an underlying mental health problem. In fact, people practicing sexual masochism have more stable mental health.

But if someone does need SMD treatment, it may involve therapy and medications like antidepressants.

Recommended Article:
Sexual Masochism Disorder is also thought to be sexual dysfunction. Read this article to learn more about sexual dysfunctions: What is Sexual Dysfunction: A Beginner’s Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal to enjoy pain during sex?

Enjoying pain during sex can be a personal preference. But Sexual Masochism Disorder goes beyond normal sexual preferences and can affect a person’s daily life.

How do people develop Sexual Masochism Disorder?

The exact causes of SMD are not fully understood. But it may be influenced by a combination of factors such as early experiences, personal traits, and societal influences.

Can Sexual Masochism Disorder be cured?

While there is no cure, the disorder can be managed through various treatment options. Treatment may involve therapy and medication, leading to improved quality of life.

Can someone have Sexual Masochism Disorder without knowing it?

Yes, sometimes people may not be aware that their sexual preferences or behaviors are part of a disorder. Seeking professional help can provide clarity and guidance.

Can Sexual Masochism Disorder affect relationships?

Yes, Sexual Masochism Disorder can impact relationships. They can create challenges in communication, understanding boundaries, and maintaining emotional intimacy.

Citations:
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Jim Carson is a highly skilled and dedicated medical writer passionate about advancing medical practice. With years of experience in the field of medical sciences, Jim has made significant contributions to various studies aimed at improving healthcare outcomes. He currently writes for Cheapmedicineshop.com, providing expert insights and knowledge on various topics. Jim's expertise extends to various areas, including drug interactions, dosages, side effects, and best practices for medication use. In Los Angeles, Jim lives with his loving wife, children, and beloved pets. He deeply values spending time with his family and cherishes their presence. When he's not writing, Jim enjoys watching football games and staying updated with the latest sports news. Jim's writing shines through his commitment to advancing medical practice and improving healthcare outcomes. Readers can trust Jim's articles to be informative, accurate, and reliable, making him a trusted pharmaceutical information source for the website's audience.
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