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postorgasmic illness syndrome

The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only. The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) does not endorse the information presented. The content has been gathered in partnership with the MONDO Disease Ontology. Please consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment.

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Disease Overview

A rare condition in which a man develops flu-like symptoms after ejaculation (when semen is released from the penis). Specific symptoms can include extreme fatigue, weakness, feverishness or sweating, mood changes or irritability, memory or concentration problems, and/or a stuffy nose or itching eyes. Symptoms may occur within seconds, minutes, or a few hours after ejaculation. Most symptoms last for 2 to 7 days and go away on their own. The underlying cause of POIS is poorly understood. Some scientists believe it may be due to a semen allergy that causes an immediate hypersensitivity reaction. There is no standard treatment for POIS, but some men have been treated with SSRIs, antihistamines, and/or benzodiazepines. Hyposensitization therapy (decreasing the immune response by exposure to semen) reportedly improved symptoms in two men with POIS.

Synonyms

  • POIS
  • post orgasmic sick syndrome
GARD Disease Summary

The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) has information and resources for patients, caregivers, and families that may be helpful before and after diagnosis of this condition. GARD is a program of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

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Orphanet

Orphanet has a summary about this condition that may include information on the diagnosis, care, and treatment as well as other resources. Some of the information and resources are available in languages other than English. The summary may include medical terms, so we encourage you to share and discuss this information with your doctor. Orphanet is the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research and the Health Programme of the European Union.

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