Persistent sexual arousal syndrome associated with increased soy intake

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Sexual Health
• Dietary Medicine

Background:

• Persistent sexual arousal syndrome (PSAS) is an uncommon condition causing distress due to persistent pelvic tension and the urge to self-stimulate.
• Patients often experience guilt or shame, leading to delayed medical care, with an unknown definitive etiology.
• Potential causes are numerous, but a clear understanding of PSAS pathogenesis remains elusive.

Observation:

• A 44-year-old female presented with dysmenorrhea and menometrorrhagia, reporting 5-6 months of increased pelvic tension unrelated to sexual desire.
• The patient required frequent self-stimulation (approx. 15 times daily) to alleviate pelvic pressure.
• This coincided with a dietary change: consuming over 4 pounds of soy daily for approximately one month prior to symptom onset.

Findings:

• Treatment involved supportive counseling and dietary modification, specifically reducing soy intake.
• The patient experienced complete resolution of both menstrual irregularities and sexual complaints within 3 months.

Implications:

• This case suggests a potential link between high dietary phytoestrogen intake and persistent sexual arousal syndrome.
• Reducing phytoestrogen consumption may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for PSAS.
• Further research into the role of diet in PSAS etiology is warranted.