Dhat syndrome in a female- a case report

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Sexual Health
• Cultural Psychiatry

Background:

• Dhat syndrome is a culturally significant condition in Indian males, characterized by anxiety over perceived semen loss.
• Symptoms often include physical complaints and psychological distress, linked to the concept of 'Dhat' or vital fluids.
• The condition's presentation and cultural interpretations are predominantly documented in males.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a case of a female patient presenting with symptoms attributed to perceived vaginal fluid loss.
• To explore the potential existence and characteristics of a 'Female Dhat Syndrome'.
• To broaden the understanding of Dhat syndrome beyond its typical male presentation.

Main Methods:

• Case report of an adult female patient.
• Clinical interview detailing presenting complaints and attributed causes.
• Analysis of symptoms in the context of cultural beliefs surrounding bodily fluids.

Main Results:

• The patient reported aches, pains, headaches, and poor concentration.
• These symptoms were attributed to perceived 'wetness' during sexual intercourse.
• The presentation suggests a possible parallel to male Dhat syndrome, focusing on female bodily fluids.

Conclusions:

• The described case suggests that a 'Female Dhat Syndrome' may exist.
• Cultural interpretations of bodily fluids and sexual health can manifest differently in females.
• Further research is warranted to validate and understand this potential syndrome in women.