I developed OCD a few months ago related to false memories and sexuality, which I believe is a consequence of trauma. My memory was affected by past experiences and now I have intrusive thoughts accompanied by "groinal response" - an uncomfortable physical sensation in my intimate area that I also experience in situations of anxiety or discomfort. Could you explain more about this physical reaction and why it might be confused with arousal? I'm embarrassed to admit it, but it even happens when I read stories that generate anxiety for me.

Thank you for sharing something so personal and confusing. What you're describing is a very common experience among trauma survivors and people with OCD, especially when there are themes related to sexuality.

The "groinal response" you mention is an involuntary physical reaction that many people with OCD experience. It's important to understand that when we talk about "arousal" in physiological terms, it doesn't always refer to sexual arousal. Your body can experience physiological arousal due to stress, which is simply the state of alertness or activation of the nervous system, without any sexual connotation.

When you experience anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or situations that generate discomfort, your autonomic nervous system activates. This system controls automatic bodily functions including heart rate, digestion, and yes, sensations in the genital area. The "fight or flight" response can cause a variety of physical symptoms: increased heart rate, sweating, muscle tension, and heightened sensitivity in various parts of the body, including the genitals.

The pathways in our brain that process anxiety and those that process physical sensations are closely connected. Intrusive thoughts of a sexual nature, even if they are unwanted and cause you distress, can trigger physical sensations simply because of how our nervous systems are wired. This doesn't mean that you're actually feeling sexual desire or arousal-- it's an automatic bodily response that you don't have control over.

Trauma can make our nervous system more reactive, and OCD can make us pay more attention to these sensations and give them more meaning than they actually have. It's completely understandable that you feel embarrassed, but these reactions are involuntary and don't reflect your true feelings, desires, or intentions.

Your ability to identify these patterns and seek understanding demonstrates tremendous self-awareness and strength. Be gentle with yourself and remember that you're taking positive steps by seeking information and support. Consider working with a therapist specialized in trauma and OCD who can help you better understand these responses and develop strategies to manage both the intrusive thoughts and the physical reactions that accompany them. Thank you for trusting us with this. You are not alone.