Sexual vs Non-Sexual Currently Most Upsetting Trauma: A Fresh Look at Attenuation of Sexual Response, Alcohol Intoxication, and Post-Traumatic Stress

This study examined the dependence of sexual response [vaginal pulse amplitude (VPA) and subjective sexual arousal] on alcohol intoxication [.10% breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) vs. no alcohol] and the nature of a woman’s currently most upsetting traumatic event (C-MUTE), - whether it was sexual (e.g., rape) or non-sexual (e.g., combat). Self-reported sexual outcomes were also compared by C-MUTE type. 117 women completed background measures and either drank alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. They were shown erotic films and their VPA was assessed. A two (sexual vs. non-sexual C-MUTE) by two (.10% BrAC vs. no alcohol) ANOVA showed that controlling for post-traumatic stress symptoms, women with a sexual C-MUTE showed lower percent VPA change than women with non-sexual C-MUTE. No significant effects were found for subjective sexual arousal. A MANOVA showed that women with a sexual C-MUTE reported more frequent anxiety and inhibition during partnered sex and more frequent lack of vaginal lubrication versus women with a non-sexual C-MUTE. There was no significant interaction between C-MUTE and alcohol intoxication. Whether a woman is currently upset by past sexual victimization may influence current sexual difficulties. Attenuated VPA may be attributable to the sexual nature of a C-MUTE as opposed to general trauma exposure.