Persistent genital arousal in women – a new syndrome entity

Abstract

The persistent sexual arousal syndrome (PSAS) is a newly described entity where women become involuntarily aroused genitally for extended periods in time in the absence of sexual desire. Genital vasoengorgement and oedema have been observed. These women are found to be usually very distressed. The cause of the syndrome in the majority of cases is unknown, although a number of women report symptoms after withdrawal from selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) antidepressants. There is no specific therapy at present, although electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has resulted in clinical improvement in cases where there was concomitant severe depression.