What's the first thing that comes to mind

when you hear the word sex?

For some, sexy time means fun, enjoyment, or love,

but for others, it's a trigger for feelings of anxiety,

uneasiness, and embarrassment.

Do you feel uncomfortable when it comes to sex?

Are you avoiding it

or do you feel something's wrong when you're having sex?

If so, there's a possibility

you could be experiencing sexual repression.

If you're not sure, here are five signs to look out for.

Number one.

Lack of interest in sex.

Do you notice that you rarely think about sex?

Maybe you seek other forms of physical contact,

such as cuddling, kissing, or holding hands,

but having sex is just not on your mind.

You simply find it uninteresting and unappealing.

Lack of interest in sex could mean you are simply asexual,

but if you used to be interested in it before

and you don't find it appealing anymore,

you may be suppressing your sexuality.

Number two.

Feelings of guilt and shame.

Do you feel ashamed of your sexuality

or maybe feel guilty if you think about sex?

For some people, guilt and shame around sex

make their sexual desire diminish completely.

It could be that you grew up

in a religious or strict household

that saw sex as something dirty and bad.

If so, your psyche is trying to suppress your urges

as best as it can.

You may see it as a sin

or think that you're a bad person

for having sexual thoughts.

Not only do these feelings suppress something in you

that is completely natural,

but they could also destroy your romantic relationships.

Number three.

Inability to enjoy sex.

Sex should never be for reproduction.

If you choose to have sex,

you should enjoy it and feel good about it.

But if you are sexually repressed,

you may find it to be everything but enjoyable.

You may have trouble getting or staying sexually excited

or maybe having an orgasm.

These problems could take a toll on your mental health

and even worsen your symptoms of sexual repression

because having sexual activity you don't enjoy

could make you desire sex even less.

Number four.

Physical pain.

Another telltale sign of sexual repression is physical pain.

While it could be a sign of a medical problem,

pain in your abdomen or genitals during intercourse

could mean sexual repression.

If it's accompanied by emotional problems

or other signs mentioned,

it's best to visit your physician

to rule out other possible causes

and possibly work on emotional problems

that are causing you pain.

And number five, erotic dreams.

While, usually, people have zero desire for sex

when they're experiencing sexual repression,

there may be a part of you

that wants to satisfy your normal human urges.

But since the body and mind don't agree on the matter,

your subconscious is working instead.

This can manifest in erotic dreams,

dreams of flirting, passionately kissing,

having sex, or experiencing orgasm.

If you can relate to any of these points,

know that these feelings are nothing to be ashamed of

and it's certainly not your fault.

Even if you feel alone,

know that sexual repression is not uncommon

and it's possible to get help.

You can talk to a sex therapist

who can help you find out the reasons behind your feelings.

It could be your upbringing,

difficulties accepting your sexual orientation,

or a trauma response.

Talking about it and working on resolving the issue

could help you regain your sexual energy

and accept your body and your sexuality.

Can you relate to this topic?

Let us know in the comments below

and share this video with others who might benefit.

As always, the references and studies used

are in the description below.

Until next time friends, take care and thanks for watching.