Hypoxyphilia

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Sexual Health
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Hypoxyphilia is a paraphilia currently recognized in the DSM-IV.
• A review of literature and an unpublished internet survey of over 100 practitioners were conducted.
• The study addresses the classification of Hypoxyphilia for the DSM-5.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature and current research on Hypoxyphilia.
• To recommend a preferred terminology and classification for the condition within the DSM-5.
• To differentiate between severe and non-severe manifestations of related sexual behaviors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on Hypoxyphilia.
• Analysis of data from an internet survey of individuals practicing the behavior.
• Expert consultation with the DSM-5 Paraphilias Subworkgroup.

Main Results:

• The term "asphyxiophilia" is recommended over "Hypoxyphilia" as it more accurately reflects sexual arousal from breathing restriction.
• Asphyxiophilia is considered a severe manifestation of Sexual Masochism, potentially leading to severe harm or death.
• There is insufficient evidence to classify asphyxiophilia as a separate paraphilia.

Conclusions:

• Asphyxiophilia should be recognized and named in the DSM-5 text, possibly as a specifier for Sexual Masochism.
• Less severe forms of Sexual Masochism without life-threatening risks should not be classified as mental disorders.
• The distinction between sexual arousal from breathing restriction and oxygen deprivation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and understanding.