Can peripheral neuropathy cause anorgasmia (inability to achieve orgasm)?

From the Guidelines

Yes, peripheral neuropathy can cause anorgasmia (inability to achieve orgasm). Neuropathy, which involves damage to peripheral nerves, can affect sexual function including the ability to orgasm. This is because orgasm relies on proper nerve signaling between the genitals and the brain. When nerves are damaged, it can disrupt this communication pathway.

Key Points to Consider

• Specifically, diabetic neuropathy and other forms of peripheral neuropathy can lead to reduced genital sensation, making it more difficult or impossible to reach orgasm.
• Additionally, neuropathy affecting the autonomic nervous system can interfere with sexual arousal and orgasmic response, as noted in studies such as 1.
• The most recent and highest quality study, 1, highlights the importance of considering genitourinary disturbances, including sexual dysfunction, in individuals with diabetes.
• If experiencing anorgasmia due to neuropathy, patients should consult their doctor. Treatment may involve addressing the underlying cause of neuropathy (e.g., better blood sugar control for diabetics), medications to improve nerve function, or exploring alternative sexual techniques to enhance stimulation.
• In some cases, devices like vibrators may help overcome reduced sensation, and it's essential to note that anorgasmia can have multiple causes, so a thorough medical evaluation is necessary to determine if neuropathy is the primary factor and to rule out other potential issues.

Important Considerations

• A study from 1 found that erectile dysfunction, which can be related to anorgasmia, is a well-recognized index of cardiovascular risk and an independent predictor of coronary artery disease.
• However, the most recent evidence from 1 should be prioritized when making clinical decisions, as it provides the most up-to-date guidance on managing genitourinary disturbances in patients with diabetes.

From the Research

Peripheral Neuropathy and Anorgasmia

• Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that can cause damage to the nerves, leading to various symptoms such as numbness, pain, and weakness 2.
• Anorgasmia, or the inability to achieve orgasm, can be caused by various factors, including neurological diseases such as diabetic neuropathy 2.
• The relationship between peripheral neuropathy and anorgasmia is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but it can be inferred that nerve damage caused by peripheral neuropathy may contribute to anorgasmia.
• Studies suggest that neurological diseases, including peripheral neuropathy, can cause sexual dysfunction, including anorgasmia 2, 3.

Etiologies of Anorgasmia

• Anorgasmia can be caused by various factors, including medication-induced, psychogenic, endocrine, and genitopelvic dysesthesia 4, 5.
• Neurological diseases, such as diabetic neuropathy, can also cause anorgasmia 2.
• The etiology of anorgasmia is often multifactorial, and a thorough history and physical examination are necessary to determine the underlying cause 4, 5.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Anorgasmia

• The diagnosis of anorgasmia is based on a clinical interview and physical examination 4, 5, 3.
• Treatment of anorgasmia can be challenging due to the lack of standardized FDA-approved pharmacotherapies 4, 5.
• Common treatment plans for anorgasmia are often multidisciplinary and may include adjustment of offending medications, sex therapy, and psychotherapy 4, 5.