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Clinical experience with post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) patients—characteristics and possible treatment modality

International Journal of Impotence Research volume 33, pages 556–562 (2021)Cite this article

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Abstract

Post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) is a rare condition that includes a cluster of post-ejaculatory symptoms with debilitating physical and psychological consequences. The prevalence and incidence of POIS remain unknown as well as the pathophysiology of the syndrome, and there are no well-studied recognized treatment modalities. The current retrospective observational study describes a series of 14 highly selected patients who were actively looking for medical help as POIS has a significant effect on patients and their partners. The aim is to increase knowledge about this syndrome and possible treatment modality. According to a standard protocol, patients have been systematically interviewed, had a physical examination, laboratory blood tests, and treatments. Mean age was 34.07 ± 6.65 years. The majority of patients had only one symptom in common—extreme fatigue. The most prevalent complaints were head pressure/heaviness, nose congestion and muscle tension; all patients suffered from more than 1 symptom. POIS started on average within 30 min of ejaculation and lasted for 3.5 days. The patients reported emotional and psychosocial burden of their symptoms, which also influence their partner and relationships. Immunoglobulin-E measurements did not show elevated levels and/or significant increase within 24 h after ejaculation. Silodosin, a highly selective alpha1A-blocker, which actually causes anejaculation, was effective treatment in 57% of the patients.

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Fig. 1: Flow diagram of treatment modalities used.

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  1. Flare-Health, W.H. Keesomlaan 12, 1183 DJ, Amstelveen, The Netherlands

    Y. Reisman

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Reisman, Y. Clinical experience with post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) patients—characteristics and possible treatment modality. Int J Impot Res 33, 556–562 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-020-0314-9

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