Millions May Suffer From Sexsomnia, a Disorder Causing Sexual Activity During Sleep

Millions of people worldwide might be experiencing 'sexsomnia,' a sleep disorder characterized by sexual activity during sleep, often without any recollection afterward. This condition, also known as 'sleep sex,' is gaining public awareness as discussions around bedroom topics become less taboo.

Unlike planned or spontaneous sexual encounters, sexsomnia is an involuntary event. Researchers from the University of Bergen in Norway conducted a study involving over 1,000 participants. Their findings revealed that 11% reported experiencing sexsomnia at least once, and 6% admitted to it happening within the last few months. This suggests the disorder is more prevalent than previously thought.

The manifestations of sexsomnia vary. The most common behavior observed is self-gratification, followed by touching a partner (reported by 4% of participants). Full sexual intercourse during sleep is the rarest occurrence, experienced by only 2% of those surveyed. Other reported symptoms include 'nocturnal orgasms' and 'sexual vocalizations' during sleep.

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It seems that sexsomnia is more widespread than previously assumed. Our results suggest that a significant portion of the general population experiences it.

While the study indicates that men are more likely to experience sexsomnia than women, the exact causes are still being investigated. However, researchers point to stress and fatigue as significant triggers. The disorder typically occurs within the first hour of falling asleep. The study authors emphasize the importance of recognizing sexsomnia as a genuine medical condition, crucial for both affected individuals and their partners to understand and manage.

Behaviors during sexsomnia can differ from an individual's waking sexual conduct. Some may become more tender and passionate, while others might exhibit aggressive or even violent actions toward their sleeping partners. The study highlights that this nocturnal activity can deviate significantly from a person's conscious behavior, underscoring the involuntary nature of the disorder.

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Some become more tender and passionate, while others can become more aggressive, and even violent towards their partner.