SSRI Sexual Dysfunction: What It Is, Why It Happens, and What You Can Do

When you start taking an SSRI, a class of antidepressants that increase serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood. Also known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, these drugs are among the most prescribed treatments for depression and anxiety. But for many people, the benefits come with an unwanted trade-off: SSRI sexual dysfunction, a group of sexual side effects including reduced libido, trouble getting or keeping an erection, delayed orgasm, or complete loss of sexual pleasure. It’s not rare—studies show up to 70% of people on SSRIs experience some form of this issue. Yet, most never talk about it with their doctor because they assume it’s just part of the deal.

This isn’t just about sex. It’s about quality of life. When you lose interest in intimacy or can’t feel pleasure during sex, it affects relationships, self-esteem, and even how you feel about your treatment overall. That’s why so many people stop taking their meds—not because the depression is back, but because the side effects feel worse than the symptoms. Serotonin, the brain chemical SSRIs boost to lift mood, also plays a key role in sexual response. Too much of it, especially over time, can shut down the pathways that drive desire and arousal. It’s not a personal failure. It’s a biological side effect, just like dry mouth or nausea. And like those, it can often be managed.

What you’ll find in the posts below aren’t just generic warnings. You’ll see real, practical advice from people who’ve been there. From switching to sertraline with a clear taper plan, to understanding how duloxetine, a different type of antidepressant that also affects norepinephrine compares in terms of sexual side effects, to tips that help you talk to your doctor without feeling embarrassed. Some posts show how adjusting timing or dosage helps. Others explore non-drug fixes—like supplements or therapy—that actually work. There’s no one-size-fits-all fix, but there are options. And you don’t have to suffer in silence.