Sexsomnia: Understanding Sexual Activity During Sleep

Sexsomnia, also referred to as "sleep sex," is a sleep disorder characterized by engaging in sexual behavior while asleep. It is a parasomnia, a behavior that occurs during sleep-wake transitions and is not under conscious control.

Prevalence:

• Sexsomnia is relatively rare, with estimates suggesting it affects less than 1% of the general population.
• It appears to be more common in males than females.

Symptoms:

• People with sexsomnia engage in sexual behaviors ranging from masturbation to intercourse while asleep.
• They have no recollection of these activities upon waking and may experience shame or guilt.
• Sexual behaviors during sexsomnia can resemble those exhibited while awake but may also include aggressive or uninhibited acts.

Causes:

• The exact causes of sexsomnia are not fully understood but may involve:
  • Medical conditions: Sleep apnea, bruxism, restless leg syndrome, periodic limb movements, and other parasomnias.
  • Lifestyle triggers: Alcohol consumption, recreational drug use, lack of sleep, exhaustion, and disruptions to the circadian rhythm.

Diagnosis:

• Diagnosing sexsomnia requires a comprehensive evaluation by a sleep specialist.
• The specialist will inquire about medical history, sleep habits, and symptoms, and may conduct a sleep study to assess brain activity and sleep patterns.

Treatment:

• Treatment options for sexsomnia depend on the underlying cause and may include:
  • Lifestyle modifications: Reducing alcohol consumption, practicing good sleep hygiene, and addressing any underlying medical conditions.
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as clonazepam, may be prescribed to reduce symptoms.
• Psychotherapy: Therapy can help individuals and their partners cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of sexsomnia.

Coping Strategies:

• Individuals with sexsomnia and their partners can take steps to manage the condition:
  • Open communication: Discussing feelings, concerns, and expectations with a partner can foster understanding and support.
  • Setting boundaries: Establishing boundaries and creating a safe environment can help prevent unwanted sexual activity during sleep.
• Consider separate sleeping arrangements: In some cases, separate bedrooms may be necessary to ensure safety and comfort.

If you believe you or your partner may be experiencing sexsomnia, it is important to seek professional help from a sleep specialist. With proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to manage sexsomnia and improve the quality of life for both individuals and their partners.