If you are suffering from sexual masochism disorder, you should get professional help as soon as possible. Read on to find out more about its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Sexual masochism disorder is a complex mental illness. There are several treatments available to manage the disorder, including counselling and medication.
Symptoms
Sexual masochism is a psychiatric disorder that involves the need to experience physical and psychological pain. It is one of the many sex-based disorders recognized by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). To be diagnosed with this disorder, a patient must meet certain criteria.
People with this disorder may engage in self-torture, humiliation, or bondage. They may also engage in sexual fantasies. In addition to these severe symptoms, sexual masochism may cause significant distress and impairment in important areas of a person’s life.
A person who suffers from sexual masochism may also have borderline personality disorder. This condition can cause physical and emotional harm to others. It may prevent the sufferer from experiencing their true sexual desires, and may keep them hidden from the truth about themselves. Once diagnosed, treatment aims to separate symptoms from true desires.
The cause of sexual masochism is not completely understood. It may be caused by a number of different factors, and there is no single factor that will cause the condition. However, it is often caused by extreme pain. Often, those with this disorder experience high levels of anxiety and shame. This can prevent them from seeking treatment. However, there are a number of treatments available to combat the symptoms of sexual masochism.
Treatment
Sexual masochism disorder treatment involves addressing the underlying cause of this sexual behavior disorder. This disorder may be treated with medication, therapy, and social skills training. The main goals of therapy are to prevent recurrences, reduce symptoms, and promote a normal sexual life.
Sexual masochism is a developmental disorder that starts in childhood. While the severity of symptoms varies in different cultures, the presentation of the disorder is similar in all. Approximately thirty percent of masochists engage in sadistic behaviors. Less than two people per million die from the condition. Both heterosexuals and homosexuals are equally susceptible to this disorder.
Masochism can lead to a person’s inflicting self-harm. Often, it stems from a past experience of abuse. By addressing the underlying causes, treatment for the condition can be more effective.
Diagnosis
Symptoms of sexual masochism disorder can be difficult to detect. They include fantasies, urges, and sexual behaviors that cause significant distress. If untreated, sexual masochism can lead to death or serious health consequences. Patients may experience breath restriction, also known as autoerotic asphyxia, and may be at risk for sexually transmitted diseases.
Sexual masochism disorder is generally diagnosed in early adulthood. The symptoms may start as early as childhood. Children may engage in masochistic play. This behavior involves causing or receiving severe pain or humiliation. This behavior may be self-inflicted, but can lead to serious injury.
Symptoms of sexual masochism must be present for at least 6 months. In addition, there must be a clear interest in sexual activity with non-consenting victims. However, the disorder may be diagnosed if the symptoms are present for a short period.
Treatment options
There are a number of treatment options for sexual masochism disorder. These can include therapy or medication. While medication is not a long-term solution, it is effective in inpatient situations and often works to control out-of-control sexual behavior. A healthcare provider will discuss the condition with the patient and consider all of the options available to him or her.
Sex masochism disorder is not a condition that can be cured. It is a psychiatric disorder characterized by intense and persistent sexual arousal, typically from humiliation and pain. It should not be confused with other sexual problems. The disorder can impair a person’s ability to function socially and physically, and treatment may be necessary for its relief.
Treatment options for sexual masochism include medications that help reduce the urges to engage in harmful behavior. However, these medications can only address the symptoms of sexual masochism disorder, and are not a cure for it. Some people may choose not to seek treatment for their disorder, due to social stigma.
