Have you ever heard of post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS)? It’s a rare condition that causes flu-like symptoms, cognitive difficulties, and other issues after ejaculation.
Because so few cases have been documented, POIS can be difficult to diagnose. You may see several specialists before receiving a diagnosis.
This article provides an overview of post-orgasmic illness syndrome, including symptoms, potential causes, how it’s diagnosed, and ways to manage it.
Symptoms of POIS
The symptoms of Post Orgasmic Illness Syndrome can be both physical and psychological, and they typically start shortly after ejaculation. The symptoms can last anywhere from 2 to 7 days.
Physical Symptoms
Many people with POIS report flu-like symptoms after they ejaculate.
Other common physical symptoms include:
- Nasal congestion
- Itchy eyes
- Extreme fatigue
- Rashes
Cognitive and Psychological Symptoms
POIS can also affect your mental state.
Some people with POIS may have trouble concentrating or remembering things. They may also experience:
- Brain fog
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
Onset and Duration
For most people with POIS, symptoms begin within minutes or hours of ejaculation and last for 2 to 7 days. After that, symptoms spontaneously resolve.
Potential Causes and Pathophysiology of POIS
The exact cause of POIS is still under investigation, but several theories have emerged, with the leading one focusing on an immunological hypersensitivity to semen.
Immunological Hypersensitivity
The most prevalent theory suggests that POIS is triggered by an allergic reaction to a man’s own semen. Researchers believe this involves a type I and type IV allergic reaction. This idea is supported by the fact that skin prick tests using a man’s own semen often come back positive in those suspected of having POIS. One study found that 88% of men suspected of having POIS had positive skin-prick tests.
These allergic reactions may involve Immunoglobulin E (IgE). In one case study, a man with POIS had an IgE level of 257 IU/mL, while normal levels are typically below 99 IU/mL.
Other Theories
Other theories regarding the cause of POIS include:
- Depletion of endogenous opioids: Some studies suggest that POIS may involve an immunological basis related to the depletion of naturally occurring opioids in the body.
- Autoimmune responses: Similarly, some studies point to an immunological basis involving autoimmune responses.
Blood-Testis Barrier Disruption
Another theory centers around the blood-testis barrier. This barrier normally prevents the immune system from coming into contact with sperm cells. Disruption of this barrier could lead to an immune response against sperm, potentially triggering POIS symptoms.
How is POIS diagnosed?
Diagnosing POIS can be tricky because there aren’t any standardized, universally accepted diagnostic tests. There’s no single blood test or scan that can definitively say, “Yep, you’ve got POIS.”
Instead, doctors rely heavily on a patient’s description of their symptoms and how those symptoms relate to ejaculation. They’ll take a detailed medical history and carefully evaluate when and how symptoms appear.
Sometimes, a doctor might perform a physical exam and allergy testing, including skin prick tests with semen, to check for possible allergic reactions. It’s also crucial to rule out other conditions that might be causing similar symptoms. This process of elimination is key to arriving at a POIS diagnosis.
Treatment and Management Strategies
Unfortunately, there is no cure for POIS. However, some treatments and management strategies can help relieve symptoms.
Antihistamines
Talk with your doctor about whether taking antihistamines might help with your symptoms. A 2023 case study found that fexofenadine, an antihistamine, was effective in treating POIS. The patient in the study reported a 90% improvement in symptoms.
Immunotherapy
Another treatment that has been used is desensitization by injecting diluted semen from the patient.
Other Medications and Therapies
The following treatments have been used in some cases, but more research is needed to determine how effective they are:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Hormonal manipulation
- Alpha-blockers
- Human chorionic gonadotrophin
Lifestyle Modifications
Some people with POIS have found that stress management techniques and dietary changes can help improve their symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do men sneeze after ejaculating?
While more research is needed, some believe sneezing after ejaculation could be related to the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions like sneezing and sexual response. It may involve a misfiring or cross-wiring of signals in the brain.
Does POIS ever go away?
Unfortunately, there’s no known cure for Post Orgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS), and for many men, it’s a chronic condition. However, some individuals have reported symptom improvement over time, and management strategies can help alleviate the severity of symptoms.
Why do my legs hurt after ejaculating?
Leg pain after ejaculation could be due to several factors, including muscle tension and spasms during sexual activity, dehydration (which is why it’s important to know if you can drink water after sex), or even nerve irritation. If the pain is persistent or severe, it’s best to consult a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Can you get rid of POIS?
As mentioned, there is no known cure for POIS. Management focuses on reducing the severity and frequency of symptoms. Options may include antihistamines, anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle modifications, and, in some cases, desensitization therapy under medical supervision.
How do you get rid of sperm release?
Sperm release is a natural and healthy bodily function, but if you’re concerned because he only lasts a few seconds, there are solutions for premature ejaculation that can help. However, if you’re referring to managing ejaculation frequency or exploring options for contraception or sterilization, it’s crucial to discuss these topics openly with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate and safe course of action for your individual needs.
Wrapping Up
Post orgasmic illness syndrome is a rare and not-well-understood condition that causes flu-like symptoms and other problems after ejaculation. While there are theories about its causes, there’s not much solid evidence.
More research is needed to figure out how to diagnose and treat POIS. In the meantime, it’s important for people with POIS and their partners to find ways to cope with the symptoms and the toll it can take on their relationships.