This condition refers to unrelenting, unwanted, persistent, intrusive and spontaneous sensations of arousal in the clitoris, vulva, perineum and/or anus, in the absence of conscious thoughts of sexual desire or interest.
Symptoms of Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder
Pulsating, pounding and/or throbbing sensations in the clitoris, vulva, perineum and/or anus
Pressure or discomfort in the clitoris, vulva, perineum and/or anus
Absence of conscious sexual desire or interest
Causes
Persistent genital arousal disorder is a multifactorial condition, with neurological, vascular, physiological, pharmacological and psychological causes. Neurologic causes may be secondary to epilepsy, trauma or post-surgical interventions. Pharmacologic causes may be secondary to the use of certain antidepressants, such as trazodone, or to the sudden withdrawal of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Preventions
To treat persistent genital arousal disorder, we first need to understand what is causing genital arousal. Treatment may include:
- Oral medications, suppositories, and topical medications