Persistent Sexual Arousal Syndrome (PSAS) or Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD).

Persistent Sexual Arousal Syndrome (PSAS) or Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD).

Persistent Sexual Arousal Syndrome or (more recently) Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder is a condition that effects women usually in their 40’s and post-menopausal years. It may be defined as persistent, intrusive and unwelcomed sexual arousal in women that differs qualitatively from that associated with sexual desire and that is not relieved by masturbation or orgasm. It is invariably described as a “rare” condition although it is readily acknowledged that, for obvious reasons, it may be under reported most particularly in underdeveloped countries.

Persistent Sexual Arousal Syndrome is not, contrary to popular belief, a trivial or humorous condition. People, including other women, may think that a permanent state of sexual arousal would be a desirable or even an enviable thing. But this is to completely misunderstand the intrusive and relentless nature of the arousal and how it differs from that associated with voluntary sexual activity. It may also be to confuse this condition with hyper sexuality or so-called nymphomania. Indeed, so distressing can this syndrome become that sufferers often report suicidal ideation.

When it comes to finding any cause for this distressing condition researchers remain very much in the dark. However, it is interesting to note yet again that, even here, our old friends the antidepressants may be implicated. Both the tricyclic and the SSRI group of drugs have been associated with PSAS. In the case of the former Trazodone in particular has been implicated. In the case of the latter it should be noted that simply discontinuing the drug give no assurance that the PSAS will quickly abate at abate at all. The ill-effects of drugs that interfere with neurotransmitters like serotonin can be life long.

If identifying a cause of PSAS is difficult so too of course is finding a solution to the problem. In our present state of knowledge no definitive treatments have been identified that give consistent results. The situation is changing and research is on going.

A useful place to liaise with fellow suffers might be to register on:  http://www.psas-support.com

This is where a cure, when one is eventually found, will be first posted.   

Doctor Andrew Rynne: http://www.doctorrynne.com