(050) POST-ORGASMIC ILLNESS SYNDROME: AN IMPEDIMENT TO INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS AND SELF-ESTEEM
Authors: Bronson I , Cabral M , Radillo K , Maietta L , Paulsen O , Rothschild A , Rubin R 
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Post-orgasmic illness Syndrome (POIS) is a rare medical condition characterized by a range of distressing physical and cognitive symptoms that occur following ejaculation in affected individuals. While survey studies have shed some light on the psychosocial burden of this condition, little is known about the complex interaction between self-esteem and relationship factors that affect those living with POIS.

Objective

This study aims to gain further insight on the psychosocial burdens of POIS and its impact on intimate relationships and feelings of isolation or stigmatization. Furthermore, it aims to provide a clinical framework for how to address the psychosocial concerns of this patient population and their partners.

Methods

A mixed-methods study was conducted, integrating data and analysis from two validated surveys: the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles Sexual Function (NATSAL-SF) and the Sexual Dysfunction Attribution Scale (SDAS). Surveys were distributed via online forums and groups, including POIScenter.com, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Reddit (r/POIS). The NATSAL-SF consists of 17 questions scored using latent variable modeling (General-Specific Model) or the Simple Scoring Method for Natsal-SF. The SDAS includes 13 items rated on a 6-point Likert scale with higher scores indicating higher levels of agreement. Additionally, qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom with a subset of survey participants from 05/24/2024 to 06/24/2024. Interview questions assessed the psychosocial burden of POIS as it pertains to the patient and their partner’s mental health and daily function. Participants were asked about their degree of dysfunction, as well as insight into coping strategies for their illness. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis techniques.

Results

There were 143 NATSAL-SF records collected and 101 SDAS records collected. The sample was 70.2% caucasian, 3.0% Black or African American, and 11.3% Asian. 9.3% reported Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. 44% reported living with a partner for at least one year and 57% reported havin sexual intercouse within the past year. Notable notable results from the NATSAL-SF include: 83% of respondents were dissatisfied with their sex life. Of those, 43% were strongly dissatisfied. 84% reported the cause of their sexual difficulties affected many areas of their relationship. Notable results from the SDAS include: 72.1% at least slightly agreed to the statement “something about me physically causes my sexual dissatisfaction”, while 42.2% of respondents agreed to the statement “Something about me personally causes my sexual difficulties”. Roughly 60% of respondents agreed that the cause of their sexual difficulties is specific to sexual activity. Over 80% of respondents denied that their partner causes their sexual difficulties. 91% reported their symptoms were stable, and over 25% believed their symptoms would always be present. Additionally, over 25% of respondents believed they had no control over the causes of their sexual difficulties.

Conclusions

From this data, a scheme was created for approaching sexual and relational concerns of patients and their partners. Findings highlight the need for more research to better understand POIS and its underlying mechanisms with the hope that interventions can one day improve the quality of life of those affected. Providers should utilize the resources available to help alleviate the emotional burden of this condition. Further research will use advanced analytical techniques to better understand the data and challenges this population faces.

Disclosure

No.