POIS Affects Both Body and Mind
A new case report from South Asia sheds light on the often-overlooked psychiatric impact of Postorgasmic-Illness-Syndrome (POIS). The patient not only suffered from physical symptoms such as fatigue and pain but also from severe psychiatric issues including:
- depression
- social withdrawal
- irritability
- persistent suicidal thoughts
The distress was so overwhelming that the patient even considered chemical or surgical castration as a last resort.
Limited Success of Current Treatments
The documented treatment approach included a combination of:
- antidepressants
- antihistamines
- pregabalin
- HCG injections
- autologous immunotherapy
While these interventions brought some temporary relief, they did not fully resolve the symptoms. Physical exercise initially improved the patient’s condition but became impossible after an injury, which further worsened his overall state.
Key Takeaways for POIS Treatment
This case emphasizes that POIS is not only a physical disorder but also deeply affects mental health. The authors highlight several crucial points:
- Psychiatric care (for depression, anxiety, and suicidality) must be an integral part of POIS management.
- A holistic, interdisciplinary approach is needed, involving urologists, immunologists, and psychiatrists.
- In South Asia, POIS can be misdiagnosed as Dhat syndrome, underscoring the need for culturally sensitive diagnostics.
- Early recognition and proper management of psychiatric POIS symptoms are vital to improving patient outcomes.
Why This Matters
This report is a reminder that POIS research must go beyond physical mechanisms and acknowledge its psychiatric burden. For patients, comprehensive care could mean the difference between chronic suffering and a significant improvement in quality of life.
Source:
Yousafzai AW, Khan FS. Psychiatric Manifestations of Post-Orgasmic Illness Syndrome: A Case Report. Journal of Ayub Medical College Abbottabad, 37(1): 202–204. Published March 2025.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55519/JAMC-01-14499