Subjective effects of MDMA (‘Ecstasy’) on human sexual function
European Psychiatry – March 01, 2001
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, significantly boosts sexual desire and satisfaction in over 90% of users. In a study involving 35 healthy recreational users (20 men and 15 women aged 21-48), participants reported that while their desire and satisfaction improved markedly, orgasm was delayed but felt more intense. However, 40% of men experienced impaired erections. This highlights a complex relationship where MDMA enhances certain aspects of sexual experience while simultaneously hindering performance, providing insights relevant to psychology, psychiatry, and drug analysis.
Abstract
Abstract Sexual function following 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, or ‘Ecstasy’) consumption was subjectively evaluated in 35 healthy recreational users (20 men and 15 women, aged 21–48 years) with regard to four major domains of sexual activity: desire, erection (lubrication in women), orgasm and satisfaction. Desire and satisfaction were moderately to profoundly increased by MDMA in more than 90% of subjects. Orgasm was delayed but perceived as more intense. Erection was impaired in 40% of the men. It seems that MDMA impairs sexual performance, in spite of enhancement of sexual desire and the perception of greater satisfaction.