Understanding Post-orgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS)

Author: Jessica Lloyd
Senior Vulvovaginal Specialist Naturopath | BHSc(N) | ISSVD, ISSWSH, BSSM, ATMS

Last reviewed: June 25, 2026

Post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) is a rare problem whereby, upon orgasming, a person experiences flu-like symptoms. The orgasm can be with a partner or on your own, and the symptoms can start immediately – within minutes – or hours after orgasm and can last for days.^1,2

Typically, symptoms disappear within a week. Men suffer POIS more often than women, but it can happen to anyone.³ The symptoms of POIS can be quite debilitating and cause the avoidance of sexual relationships.

Effectively coming down with the flu after having sex or masturbating puts a bit of a damper on it.

Classifications of POIS

There are two classifications of post-orgasmic illness syndrome: primary and secondary. As in all classifications in medicine, primary means you’ve always had it since it was relevant (in this case, since you started having orgasms) or secondary, where it developed over time.⁴

There is no known cause, and no treatment is available, so the number of people affected by this condition remains unknown. Theories include an allergic-like reaction or an autoimmune response.⁵

Available treatments include symptom management, such as antihistamines to control allergic reactions, a form of antidepressant (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRIs) or benzodiazepines.⁶

Symptoms of post-orgasmic illness syndrome

Feeling tired
Weakness
Headaches
Moody
Irritable
Fever – hot or cold
Watery, itchy eyes
Blurred vision
Blocked nose
Sore throat
Cough
Muscle soreness
Trouble concentrating

A proper diagnosis is required. However, you’re largely on your own when it comes to managing your symptoms. Of interest may be learning what happens to you when you orgasm.⁷

Seek help from your doctor for at least a diagnosis, and to eliminate serious diagnoses, and then start the process of figuring out, with the help of a healthcare professional, how to get well.

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