Sexsomnia: Understanding a Rare Sleep Disorder
Sleep disorders come in various forms, affecting individuals in different ways. One such disorder that has garnered attention is sexsomnia, a parasomnia characterized by sexual behaviors that occur during sleep. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the phenomenon of sexsomnia, its causes, psychosocial implications, and potential treatments. We will draw insights from various sources, including a rare case presentation involving a military service member, to provide a comprehensive understanding of this intriguing sleep disorder.
What is Sexsomnia?
Sexsomnia, also known as sleep sex or sleep-related sexual behaviors, is a rare sleep disorder classified as a subtype of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) parasomnia. NREM parasomnias encompass a range of sleep-related events that occur during the transition between sleep stages or during deep sleep. Sexsomnia specifically refers to sexual behaviors that occur during sleep, such as masturbation, fondling, or even attempted intercourse.
Individuals with sexsomnia typically have no recollection of these behaviors, as they occur during NREM sleep and are not associated with dreams. Sleep experts believe that sexsomnia is likely triggered by a combination of genetic predisposition and external factors such as sleep deprivation, stress, or substance use. It predominantly affects men, and its prevalence in the general population remains largely unknown, as many individuals may be unaware or hesitant to seek medical assistance.
Key Characteristics of Sexsomnia
Here are key points to understand about sexsomnia:
Types of Behaviors:
Sexsomnia can manifest in various sexual behaviors during sleep, including masturbation, fondling, sexual vocalizations, or even sexual assault. The behaviors can occur during any stage of sleep, including non-REM (rapid eye movement) and REM sleep.
Lack of Awareness:
Individuals with sexsomnia are typically unaware of their actions. They may have no recollection of the events that occurred during sleep, and the behaviors are often discovered by a bed partner or reported by others.
Onset and Frequency:
Sexsomnia can develop at any age but is more commonly reported in adolescence or early adulthood. The frequency of episodes can vary, with some individuals experiencing occasional events, while others may have more frequent occurrences.
Triggers and Associations:
Sleep deprivation, stress, alcohol consumption, and certain medications may act as triggers for sexsomnia episodes. There can also be associations with other sleep disorders, such as sleepwalking or night terrors.