Postorgasmic-Illness-Syndrome News
New Study on the Psychosocial Impact of POIS
New research highlights how POIS affects self-esteem and relationships
A recent survey of 83 men with Post-Orgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS) provides the first targeted insights into the psychosocial burden of the condition. The results show that POIS not only causes severe physical symptoms but also has significant negative effects on self-esteem, the sense of control, and intimate relationships.
POIS, a rare disorder that triggers a wide range of distressing physical and cognitive symptoms after ejaculation, has so far been studied mainly with regard to possible causes and treatment options. This new study, conducted through an online survey, closes an important research gap by focusing on the psychological and social dimensions of the disease.
Key findings of the study
- Hopelessness and loss of control: Almost all respondents (96.4%) believe their symptoms “will always persist.” A large majority (81.9%) feel they have no control over the causes of POIS. This sense of loss of control also extends to their partners.
- High self-blame: 60.2% of men blame themselves for their condition, while only a small proportion (7.2%) attribute responsibility to their partners.
- Negative impact on relationships: 80.7% of participants report that POIS negatively affects their relationships. This also manifests in reduced sexual activity: 37.3% had no sexual intercourse in the past year—a significantly higher rate compared to the general population.
- Sexual act as root cause: The majority (66.3%) identify the sexual act itself as the source of their sexual problems, rather than external circumstances or their partners.
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that men with POIS experience profound emotional strain, hopelessness, and a lack of control. These burdens mirror the challenges faced by patients with other chronic conditions, such as erectile dysfunction, and often lead to lower quality of life, depression, and reduced intimacy.
The findings emphasize the urgent need to integrate psychological support and relationship counseling into the treatment of POIS in order to help patients cope with the emotional challenges of the condition.
The study was published in the June 2025 issue of the International Journal of Impotence Research.
English abstract available here: PubMed