Postorgasmic Illness Syndrome: An Update

Abstract

Postorgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) is a rare condition affecting men who experience a cluster of flu-like and allergic symptoms after ejaculation. POIS can occur after intercourse, masturbation, or spontaneous ejaculation, and may persist for up to 7 d. Recurrent symptoms often negatively impact quality of life and sexual activity, leaving those affected with mental sequelae, diminished concentration, and mood changes. While it has been shown that various treatment options can alleviate symptoms in the short term, acute management remains controversial. In addition, follow-up data are severely lacking, resulting in the absence of established long-term management options for men suffering from POIS. This review highlights hallmark studies and the current state and promising developments surrounding clinical approaches to POIS. Patient summary: In this review, we discuss what is known about postorgasmic illness syndrome (POIS), a disease that causes flu-like symptoms in some men after ejaculation. Little research has been on POIS, so its causes, diagnosis, and appropriate treatments are poorly understood.