Sexsomnia is a rare sleep disorder where individuals engage in sexual activities while asleep. It affects 0.3-4.6% of the population, more commonly men than women. Treatment involves medications like benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants, alongside cognitive behavioral therapy and lifestyle adjustments. These can reduce episodes triggered by factors like stress or other sleep disorders.

Managing Sexsomnia involves creating a stable sleep routine, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and addressing stress through therapy or relaxation techniques. Partners should educate themselves about the condition, be patient, and consider safety measures if necessary. Professional help can guide both individuals and couples through understanding and managing Sexsomnia effectively.

More about Sexomnia

Sexsomnia is a parasomnia, or sleep disorder, that involves engaging in sexual activities while asleep. It is a rare condition, but it can cause distress and disruption to both the individual and their partner. It is more common in men than women and is more likely to occur in people who have other sleep disorders such as sleepwalking.

Sexsomnia is a type of parasomnia, which is a sleep disorder that involves abnormal behavior during sleep. It is characterized by an individual engaging in sexual activities such as masturbation, fondling, or intercourse while asleep. It is often associated with other sleep disorders such as sleepwalking and sleep talking.

The diagnosis of Sexsomnia is based on a detailed medical history and a physical examination. Treatment usually involves lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding alcohol and drugs before bed, and cognitive behavioral therapy to help manage stress and anxiety. In some cases, medications such as antidepressants or sedatives may be prescribed.

Research into Sexsomnia has suggested that it may be caused by an imbalance of hormones or neurotransmitters in the brain, or by an underlying medical condition such as epilepsy or sleep apnea. There is also evidence that it can be triggered by stress or anxiety.

Several studies have looked at the effectiveness of treatments for Sexsomnia , with some showing positive results. However, more research is needed to better understand the condition and to develop more effective treatments. In the meantime, it is important for individuals with Sexsomnia to seek professional help in order to manage their symptoms and reduce any distress caused by the condition.

Suggestions for People Dealing with Sexsomnia

1. Talk to a doctor: It is important for people with Sexsomnia to talk to a doctor or mental health professional to determine the best course of treatment. A doctor can help diagnose the condition and provide advice on how to manage it.
2. Follow a sleep schedule: Establishing and following a regular sleep schedule can help reduce the occurrence of Sexsomnia episodes. This includes going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, avoiding naps, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed.
3. Reduce stress: Stress can be a major trigger for Sexsomnia episodes, so it is important for people with Sexsomnia to find ways to reduce stress in their lives. This could include regular exercise, relaxation techniques, or talking to a therapist.
4. Avoid sleeping with a partner: People with Sexsomnia should avoid sleeping with a partner until the condition is under control. If this is not possible, it is important to discuss the condition with the partner and make sure they are aware of the risks associated with sleeping together.
5. Use safety measures: People with Sexsomnia may want to use safety measures such as locking bedroom doors or using alarms when sleeping with a partner. This can help reduce the risk of any unwanted sexual behavior occurring during sleep.

Suggestions for Partners of People Dealing with Sexsomnia

1. Educate yourself about Sexsomnia. Learn as much as you can about the condition and its symptoms. This will help you better understand and support your partner.
2. Be patient and understanding. Sexsomnia can be a difficult condition to deal with, and your partner may need extra patience and understanding from you.
3. Talk openly and honestly with your partner about their condition. Encourage them to talk about their feelings and experiences, and provide a safe space for them to do so.
4. Seek professional help if necessary. If your partner’s Sexsomnia is causing distress or disruption in your relationship, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in sleep disorders.
5. Create a plan for managing episodes of Sexsomnia. Work together to create a plan for managing episodes of Sexsomnia, such as setting up a safe environment, using calming techniques, and discussing any triggers that may be causing the episodes.

What should one do when they wake up seeing or feeling partner having sex with them?

If you wake up and feel that your partner is having sex with you without your consent, it is important to stop the activity immediately and seek help. You should contact a trusted friend or family member and/or the police to report the incident. It is also important to seek medical attention and counseling to help you process the experience.

What is the link between Sexsomnia and Insomnia?

Sexsomnia and Insomnia are two distinct sleep disorders. Sexsomnia is a parasomnia disorder in which a person engages in sexual activities while asleep, while insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. While the two disorders may have similar symptoms, such as difficulty sleeping, they are caused by different factors and require different treatments.

What types of medications help with Sexsomnia?

1. Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are a type of medication used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia. They work by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Possible side effects include drowsiness, confusion, and memory problems. Benzodiazepines can also be habit-forming and can lead to addiction if taken for a long period of time. However, when used properly, benzodiazepines can be effective in treating Sexsomnia by helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
2. Antidepressants: Antidepressants are a type of medication used to treat depression and other mental health conditions. They work by increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety. Possible side effects include nausea, weight gain, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction. Antidepressants can also be habit-forming and can lead to addiction if taken for a long period of time. However, when used properly, antidepressants can be effective in treating Sexsomnia by helping to reduce anxiety and improve mood.
3. Anticonvulsants: Anticonvulsants are a type of medication used to treat epilepsy and other seizure disorders. They work by reducing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as glutamate and GABA, which can help reduce seizure activity. Possible side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and weight gain. Anticonvulsants can also be habit-forming and can lead to addiction if taken for a long period of time. However, when used properly, anticonvulsants can be effective in treating Sexsomnia by helping to reduce seizure activity and promote relaxation.

How does Cognitive behavioral Therapy help with Sexsomnia?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people with Sexsomnia by teaching them to recognize triggers and develop strategies to manage their symptoms. CBT can also help people identify and modify any negative thoughts or beliefs they may have about their condition. Additionally, CBT can help people learn to better manage stress, which can be a major trigger for Sexsomnia episodes. Finally, CBT can help people develop healthy sleep habits and routines that may reduce the frequency of Sexsomnia episodes.

How does Lifestyle changes help reduce the severity and frequency of Sexsomnia episodes?

Lifestyle changes can help reduce the severity and frequency of Sexsomnia episodes by improving overall health and wellbeing. Avoiding alcohol and drugs can reduce the risk of sleep disturbances that can trigger Sexsomnia episodes. Getting adequate sleep helps to ensure that the body is well-rested and able to regulate its sleep-wake cycle. Reducing stress can also help to reduce the risk of sleep disturbances, as well as improve overall physical and mental health. By making these lifestyle changes, individuals can help to reduce the severity and frequency of Sexsomnia episodes.

Sexsomnia is a real and serious condition that can have a significant impact on those affected and their partners. It is important to remember that it is not the fault of those with Sexsomnia or their partners, and that it is not something to be ashamed of. With understanding, patience, and support, those with Sexsomnia and their partners can work together to manage the condition and build a healthy, fulfilling relationship. Book your 15-minute Zoom session with us today!

References: 

1. Cruz, M. M. E., & Soca, R. (2016). Sexsomnia and REM- predominant obstructive sleep apnea effectively treated with a mandibular advancement device. Sleep Science, 9(3), 140–141. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.slsci.2016.11.002
2. Dresden, D. (2023b, March 24). 6 Free (or Low Cost) Home STI Tests to Try. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/free-home-sti-test#what-is-it
3. Dubessy, A., Leu-Semenescu, S., Attali, V., Maranci, J., & Arnulf, I. (2017). Sexsomnia: A Specialized Non-REM Parasomnia? Sleep, 40(2). https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/zsw043
4. Kumar, V., Grbach, V. X., & Castriotta, R. J. (2020). Resolution of sexsomnia with paroxetine. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 16(7), 1213–1214. https://doi.org/10.5664/jcsm.8478
5. Muza, R., Lawrence, M., & Drakatos, P. (2016). The reality of sexsomnia. Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine, 22(6), 576–582. https://doi.org/10.1097/mcp.0000000000000321
6. Soca, R., Keenan, J. C., & Schenck, C. H. (2016). Parasomnia Overlap Disorder with Sexual Behaviors during Sleep in a Patient with Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 12(08), 1189–1191. https://doi.org/10.5664/jcsm.6066
7. Toscanini, A. C., Marques, J. B., Hasan, R., & Schenck, C. H. (2021). Sexsomnia: case based classification and discussion of psychosocial implications. Sleep Science, 14(2), 175–180. https://doi.org/10.5935/1984-0063.20200057

About Dr. Martha Tara Lee