PGAD is not relieved byorgasmand may require multiple orgasms over hours or days for the aroused state to subside.
A case-by-case approach is needed.
This article explains what persistent genital arousal syndrome is, including what it feels like and its possible causes.
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Research studies sometimes don’t use the terminology in this way.
What Is Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD)?
PGAD is thought to affect between 1% and 4% of adults to varying degrees.
The arousal is marked by increased blood flow to the genitals with or without engorgement.
It is not clear why females appear to be affected by PGAD more than males.
Is PGAD Common in Men?
Priapism, PSAS, and PGAD: What Is the Difference?
PGAD was previously referred to as persistent sexual arousal syndrome (PSAS).
PGAD occurs in the absence of a psychological response.
Another term less commonly used is “restless genital syndrome.”
PGAD vs. Hypersexuality
PGAD is not the same thing as hypersexuality.
What Does PGAD Feel Like?
As per its name, PGAD symptoms are characterized by persistence.
Symptoms of PGAD can last for hours to days or be constant for certain individuals with primary PGAD.
What Causes PGAD?
This is the nerve that provides sensations to the genitals.
Tarlov cysts are relatively common, but ones large enough to compress nerves are not.
Antidepressants
PGAD has been linked to certain classes of antidepressants.
The basal ganglia are additionally tasked with translating sexual urges into a physiological response.
It is possible that the mechanisms that trigger RLS might also trigger PGAD.
The same might occur if SSRIs or SNRIs are suddenly stopped, triggering RLS in people withantidepressant withdrawal.
How Is PGAD Diagnosed?
Other tests may be ordered to narrow the possible causes, including:
How Is PGAD Treated?
Based on the findings of your tests, your healthcare provider may recommend one or more treatments.
Medications
Many different medications are used off-label for the treatment of PGAD.
Whether PGAD can be “cured” depends on the situation.
The causes of PGAD are diverse, and no single treatment works for everyone.
PGAD is not relieved by orgasm.
PGAD is more common in females than males.
Possible causes include Tarlov cysts, arteriovenous malformations, stress, and certain antidepressants.
In:Unusual and Rare Psychological Disorders: A Handbook for Clinical Practice and Research.
Oxford, England: Oxford University Press; 2016.
A review of the literature.Curr Pharm Des.
doi:10.1097/PR9.0000000000000801
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Tarlov cyst.
The case of a 35-year-old patient.J Sex Mental Health.2016;14(1):48309.
