What is post orgasmic illness syndrome?
Post orgasmic illness syndrome, or POIS, is a rare and complex condition that causes physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms after orgasm. It can feel like you have the flu, or it can cause brain fog, exhaustion, and mood swings.
The exact cause of POIS is still unknown, but some experts believe that it is an allergic or autoimmune reaction to substances released during orgasm. Because POIS is so rare, there is little research on it. Most of what we know comes from case reports.
This article will give you an overview of POIS, including how it’s diagnosed and what treatment options are available. We’ll be sure to include some newer approaches to POIS treatment that are under study in 2024.
Understanding Post Orgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS)
Let’s dive into what POIS actually is, because it’s more than just feeling a little tired after sex. It’s a real condition that can seriously impact someone’s life.
What is POIS?
POIS, or Post Orgasmic Illness Syndrome, is a condition where people experience a range of debilitating symptoms after ejaculating. We’re talking flu-like symptoms, problems with thinking and memory, allergic reactions, and even stomach issues.
The most common idea is that POIS is an immunological issue. Basically, the theory is that some people are allergic to their own semen. It sounds wild, but that’s what the current research suggests.
Symptoms of POIS
What does POIS feel like? Well, the symptoms can vary, but they’re often described as:
- Flu-like sensations
- Extreme fatigue
- Muscle weakness
- Feeling feverish
- Mood swings and irritability
- Trouble with memory and concentration (brain fog)
- Nasal congestion
- Itchy eyes
The really frustrating thing is that these symptoms can last for days – usually between 2 and 7 days – before finally clearing up.
Who is Affected by POIS?
While POIS is mainly reported in men, it’s important to know that women can experience it too. The symptoms usually start showing up during the teenage years, which can make an already confusing time of life even more difficult.
Diagnosing Post Orgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS)
Currently, there’s no single, definitive test for POIS. Doctors typically diagnose it based on a patient’s symptoms and medical history. This is what’s known as a clinical diagnosis.
A key resource for diagnosis is the definition published by Waldinger in 2002, which outlines specific criteria that doctors use to evaluate potential cases.
Diagnostic Testing
While the diagnosis is largely based on symptoms, doctors may also order blood tests to rule out other conditions and get a better understanding of the patient’s overall health. These tests can include:
- A complete blood count (CBC)
- Serum electrolyte tests
- Kidney and liver function tests
- Sex hormone level tests
- Urine studies
Some researchers are exploring the use of skin testing with highly diluted semen as a possible diagnostic tool. However, the reliability of this method is still up for debate.
Differential Diagnosis
It’s super important to rule out other conditions that might be causing similar symptoms. For example, mastocytosis, a rare disorder involving mast cells, can sometimes mimic POIS. Doctors can evaluate for mastocytosis by checking a tryptase level in the blood.
What causes POIS?
The exact cause of POIS is still a bit of a mystery, but researchers have a few working theories. One of the most promising ideas revolves around the immune system. Some scientists think POIS might be an allergic reaction to a man’s own seminal fluid.
Another potential factor is low testosterone. Low testosterone levels sometimes show up in men with POIS. Doctors should check hormone levels to rule out hypogonadism (the medical term for low testosterone) as a contributing cause.
Finally, earlier studies have suggested that POIS might be linked to a variety of other things, including psychiatric issues, allergies, autoimmune problems, hormonal imbalances, and neurobiochemical factors. The truth is that POIS is complex, and likely has multiple contributing factors.
Treatment Options for Post Orgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS)
Because POIS is a relatively rare and poorly understood condition, there’s no single, universally effective treatment. Current treatment strategies typically focus on managing symptoms, primarily by reducing allergy-like reactions and inflammation. A variety of treatments have been tried, including antidepressants, testosterone replacement therapy, intralymphatic immunotherapy, alpha-blockers, NSAIDs, surgery, subcutaneous hCG injections, and antihistamines.
Current Treatment Strategies
Many people with POIS have had some success using antihistamines, which makes sense, given that POIS symptoms often mimic an allergic reaction. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have also shown some promise, though results are mixed.
Omalizumab: A Newer Treatment Option
Omalizumab, a monoclonal antibody, represents a newer and potentially more targeted approach to treating POIS. Monoclonal antibodies are lab-created proteins designed to target specific substances in the body. In the case of omalizumab, the target is IgE, an antibody involved in allergic reactions.
A case report published in Sexual Medicine described a man with severe POIS who experienced significant symptom improvement after three months of treatment with omalizumab and escitalopram (an antidepressant). While this is encouraging, it’s important to remember that it’s just one case. Omalizumab requires further study in larger, controlled trials to determine its true effectiveness and safety for POIS.
Addressing Hormonal Imbalances
Some researchers and clinicians have explored the role of hormonal imbalances in POIS, particularly testosterone. Raising testosterone levels may improve some symptoms in certain individuals. However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects such as high estrogen symptoms. However, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in young men is generally not recommended unless carefully managed with medications like clomiphene citrate to avoid the risk of infertility. Other options, like Gonadorelin oral, should also be explored with your doctor.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to POIS Treatment
Because POIS is so complex and poorly understood, a holistic, multidisciplinary approach is often best. Treatment plans should consider potential allergic, psychiatric, and endocrinological factors.
Ideally, a team of specialists—including urologists, endocrinologists, and psychologists—should work together to evaluate and treat the condition. This team can help determine the specific underlying causes of POIS in each individual case, leading to a more tailored and effective treatment plan.
Understanding the complex etiology of POIS is crucial for developing effective treatments. A tailored approach addresses the unique needs of each person struggling with this challenging condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I so tired after ejaculating?
Feeling tired after ejaculating is quite common. Several factors can contribute, including the physical exertion involved, the release of hormones like prolactin, and the depletion of energy stores. Some men might be more sensitive to these effects than others.
Why do men’s moods change after ejaculating?
Hormonal shifts after ejaculation can influence mood. The release of endorphins and oxytocin can create feelings of relaxation and pleasure, while subsequent changes in dopamine and testosterone levels may contribute to feelings of sadness or irritability in some individuals. This is sometimes referred to as postcoital tristesse (PCT).
Why do I feel bad after ejaculating?
If you consistently feel bad after ejaculating, it’s important to investigate potential underlying causes. While hormonal fluctuations are normal, persistent negative feelings could indicate a condition like Post-Orgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS). Consulting with a doctor or mental health professional can help determine the cause and appropriate course of action.
How to get tested for POIS?
Currently, there isn’t a standardized test for POIS. Diagnosis relies primarily on a thorough clinical evaluation, including a detailed medical history and assessment of symptoms. Some specialists may use allergy testing to investigate potential allergic reactions to seminal fluid, but this isn’t a definitive diagnostic tool. Consulting a physician specializing in sexual health or urology is crucial for proper assessment.
Why do my legs hurt after ejaculating?
Leg pain after ejaculating is less common but can occur. It could be related to muscle tension during sexual activity, dehydration, or, in rare cases, nerve-related issues. If the pain is persistent or severe, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
To conclude
Post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) is a rare and often misunderstood condition. It’s characterized by a range of symptoms that occur after orgasm. Experts suspect that these symptoms may stem from immunological and hormonal factors.
If you think you have POIS, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional. While there’s no cure yet, a doctor can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
More research is needed to fully understand POIS and develop more effective treatments. With increased awareness and research, we can hope for better outcomes for those affected by this challenging condition.