Sexsomnia: case based classification and discussion of psychosocial implications

Abstract

We describe a 42-year-old married woman diagnosed with sexsomnia as a NREM parasomnia, who sought medical assistance motivated by relationship problems with her husband after two sexsomnia episodes. This is the second case of sexsomnia reported in Brazil, but the first case with comprehensive follow-up. The patient was clinically evaluated, no psychiatric history was found, and she denied using pharmaceutical or recreational drugs. A video-polysomnography documented nine episodes of short- lasting abrupt awakening from N2 and N3, indicating a non-REM parasomnia, some with masturbation characteristics. The findings of this case, including unusual features, are considered in regard to the range of adverse psychosocial consequences of sexsomnia in these patients and the need for specialized interventions that can be provided by sleep specialists. We discuss the misinformation and delay of proper diagnosis and treatment that occurs with sexsomnia and emphasize the importance of understanding the broad set of problems and consequences related to sexsomnia, including physical, psychological, marital/relationship and at times legal aspects that affect the lives of sexsomniac patients and their bed partners.

Keywords: Family Relations; NREM Parasomnia; Parasomnias; Sexsomnia; Sexual Behavior; Sleep Sex.

Figure 1

vPSG hipnogram showing abrupt arousals. A3: awakening from N3. A2: awakening from N2. +M: association with motor behavior of limbs and hips that resembled masturbation together with a mixture of moaning and sighing.