A condition known as post-orgasmic morbidity syndrome (POIS) has been described in only sixty cases in medical literature, but estimates suggest that tens of thousands of people around the world may suffer from it without linking the symptoms to sexual relations. Researchers from a hospital in Saint Cloud, France are conducting a study to determine the frequency of the phenomenon and its causes.
Sufferers of POIS describe symptoms such as generalized muscle pain, fatigue, weakness, sweating, burning and redness of the eyes, runny nose, headaches, and more. The phenomenon is more common among individuals aged 40-50, but it can affect people of any age. In most cases, symptoms subside after a day or two, but they can also last for weeks.
Several hypotheses exist regarding the origin of POIS. Some suggest a brain short circuit while others propose a decrease in endorphin hormone levels during orgasm. Mental factors like anxiety around sex or personality characteristics are also considered. However, none of these hypotheses have been scientifically proven yet.
Treatment options include painkillers, anti-anxiety drugs and treatments targeting inflammation of the prostate gland. These treatments are often combined with sexual counseling at sexual health clinics. Awareness about these symptoms may lead to more diagnoses and successful treatments for individuals affected by POIS.
Experts recommend that individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms after orgasm consult a sex medicine specialist. Fatigue, fever, headaches and nasal congestion lasting hours to days may be signs of POIS