What is POIS?
Postorgasmic-Illness-Syndrome About POIS
Postorgasmic-Illness-Syndrome (POIS) is a rare disease in which a person can develop a variety of symptoms within minutes to hours after orgasm or ejaculation.
POIS-Guide
Postorgasmic-Illness-Syndrome (POIS) is a rare and often misunderstood medical condition that occurs after sexual activity, particularly following orgasm. People with POIS may experience debilitating physical and cognitive symptoms lasting for days, dramatically affecting quality of life.
This guide explains everything you need to know about POIS — symptoms, possible causes, diagnosis, and treatment options — backed by the latest research.
What is POIS?
POIS is a chronic condition in which individuals develop symptoms within minutes to hours after orgasm. These symptoms can last from a day up to a week or longer
POIS-Symptoms at all levels
POIS causes physical symptoms such as flu-like symptoms, extreme exhaustion, and brain fog, as well as cognitive disorders such as concentration and speech problems, and psychological stress such as anxiety or depressive episodes. The symptoms usually begin immediately after ejaculation—in many cases within a few seconds to minutes—and generally last for 2 to 7 days. The course of the condition varies greatly from person to person.
Commonly reported symptoms include:
- Severe fatigue
- Brain fog and poor concentration
- Flu-like aches and chills
- Irritability or anxiety
- Muscle weakness or pain
- Digestive issues
Learn more about POIS-Symptoms.
Who Can Get POIS?
While POIS is most often reported in men, cases in women have been documented. It can appear at any age, though symptoms often begin in late adolescence or early adulthood.
Possible Causes of POIS
The exact cause of POIS is not fully understood, but current research points to several possible factors:
- Autoimmune or allergic reactions to one’s own semen
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g., low testosterone, thyroid disorders)
- Neurochemical changes affecting serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine
- Chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation
The number of scientific studies is currently still very small. They are mainly case studies with very few subjects. The first scientific study on the subject was only published in 2002. However, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the phenomenon is much longer known as “Shenkui” (kidney deficiency). In TCM, the origin of the problem is seen in the kidney („Sheng“ = kidney; „k’uei'“= lack; „shenkui“ = kidney deficiency).
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How is POIS Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on medical history, symptom patterns, and exclusion of other conditions. The most widely used criteria are the Waldinger Criteria, which focus on symptom onset after orgasm and symptom resolution after a recovery period.
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Why does POIS often go undiagnosed?
Because there are no clear causes or reliable laboratory values, diagnosis is based on clinical criteria—which makes diagnosis difficult. Many sufferers often need years to recognise the causes of their symptoms, to see a doctor and to address the disease to their partners. Since POIS is still largely unknown among doctors, the search for help often resembles a labyrinth without a way out.
Can POIS Be Treated?
Since the causes are still unknown, there is currently no universal cure. But treatment strategies against individual symptoms may include:
- Antihistamines for allergic-type reactions
- Anti-inflammatory supplements or medications
- Hormonal therapy where deficiencies are identified
- Dietary and lifestyle changes to reduce inflammation and stress
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How common is POIS?
POIS is extremely rare—according to estimates, it affects less than one man per million. Data on women is even scarcer. However, user numbers in online communities like poiscenter.com suggest that the disease is far more common than officially known.
Is POIS a recognized condition?
Although POIS is recognized as a distinct syndrome by doctors and researchers, it is not yet listed as an official disease in medical classification systems such as ICD-10.
However, The American National Institute of Health and the European organization Orphanet have now included POIS in their rare disease databases.
Final Thoughts
If you suspect you have POIS, consult a healthcare professional familiar with the condition. Early recognition and symptom management can greatly improve quality of life.