What is persistent genital arousal disorder?

This condition refers to spontaneous sensations of arousal in the clitoris, vulva, perineum, or anus in the absence of conscious thoughts of sexual desire or interest. These sensations are:

  • Unrelenting
  • Unwanted
  • Persistent
  • Intrusive

Causes and symptoms of persistent genital arousal disorder

Persistent genital arousal disorder is a multifactorial condition with causes being:

  • Neurological
  • Vascular
  • Physiological
  • Pharmacological
  • Psychological causes
Close-up of a blue cushion

Neurologic causes may include epilepsy, trauma, or post-surgical interventions. Pharmacologic causes may include the use of certain antidepressants, such as trazodone, or the sudden withdrawal of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Persistent genital arousal disorder is characterized by:

  • Pulsating, pounding, or throbbing sensations in the clitoris, vulva, perineum, or anus
  • Pressure or discomfort in the clitoris, vulva, perineum, or anus
  • Absence of conscious sexual desire or interest

Diagnosing persistent genital arousal

Persistent genital arousal disorder causes a lot of distress for the individual. It is different from “hypersexuality,” as the symptoms of sexual arousal are not accompanied by sexual desire. The sensations can arise at any time and are distracting and uncomfortable. It can be difficult to discuss the symptoms with anyone, even your doctor.

Thankfully, when under the care of Dr. Bahlani, you will be in a safe, private, comforting atmosphere with a medical professional who has resolved this condition for other patients. She understands all contributing factors and will propose a treatment plan to deliver real-world relief.

The diagnosis will involve a discussion regarding the symptoms experienced, along with a medical evaluation, including the medications you take. Tests may be performed to measure the blood flow to your genitals.

Banner media

Treatments for persistent genital arousal disorder

To treat persistent genital arousal disorder, we first need to understand what is causing genital arousal. It may involve prescription medications to address nerve pain or emotional issues that could contribute to the situation. In some cases, specific exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor could be effective. In any case, you can trust that your treatment will be focused on ensuring you achieve relief. Some examples of treatment options include:

  • Oral medications 
  • Suppositories 
  • Topical medications
Background

Why choose Pelvic Pain Doc in New York City?

If you struggle with the symptoms of persistent genital arousal disorder, you deserve hope and a treatment that brings you relief. When cared for at Pelvic Pain Doc, you will be treated by a leading medical specialist who is both a gynecologist and a urologist and fellowship trained in pelvic floor disorders in NYC. Many patients come to Pelvic Pain Doc after seeing several other doctors with no real result. As the condition may be related to a physiological or medical condition, not an emotional issue, it can be very upsetting to be informed that the problem is “all in your head.”

Banner media

A pelvic pain doctor you can trust: Dr. Bahlani

You can trust that you will be heard and understood. In fact, many patients fly in from other cities and states for treatment from Dr. Bahlani after having read her book, “Dr. Sonia’s Guide to Navigating Pelvic Pain,” seeing her on TV, or hearing her on an informational podcast.

You need treatment from a surgeon that can treat this condition quickly and effectively – Dr. Bahlani. She has the clinical acumen to properly diagnose patients and the surgical and treatment plan skills to achieve arguably the best results. Contact us today.

Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (212) 634-9533.
Contact Us