Psychoactive substance use and sexual behavior

Introduction: The relationship between psychoactive substances and sexual behavior is a growing area of interest in substance use research, largely because of high-risk sexual behaviors among substance-dependent individuals. The purpose of this research is to investigate multiple relationships between the consumption of various psychoactive substances and sexual behavior.

Method: Narrative review method was used in this research. To collect data, relevant articles were searched in Google Scholar, PubMed, NOORMAGS, SID, and irandoc databases using the keywords of sexual substance use, sexual functions and perversions, high-risk sexual behaviors, and substance-facilitated sexual assault..

Result: sexualized drug use is a relatively common behavior. Acute substances use can be associated with strengthening or improving sexual functions and facilitate sexual behavior by reducing inhibitions. Chronic substances use is associated with sexual dysfunction such as reduced sexual desire and erectile dysfunction. substances use also increases risky sexual behaviors and sexually transmitted diseases. Drug-facilitated sexual assault is a common behavior, although it is usually underreported.

Discussion and conclusion: Assessing the relationship between substance use and sexual behavior may be an important part of comprehensive evaluation and treatment planning. The clinical benefits of addressing these issues can be significant, from reducing risky sexual behaviors to improving the quality of life.