Gretchen Molannen says she had 50 orgasms in a row, non-stop. She says she thought she was going to die. Gretchen suffers from a bizarre and rare condition called Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD).
Gretchen Molannne from Florida has been living for 16 years with the strange medical condition which leaves her physically but not psychologically excited.
Ms Molannen says she began feeling the sensation when she was 23, she describes that it as like a switch she can’t turn off. Her constant need to pleasure herself has made it hard for her to hold down a job, and made her life miserable.
“I had such a different life before this thing, this beast, took over ….I used to love life. But this has destroyed it. This isn’t living. What’s the point? I think about suicide all the time,” she says..
Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD) is a medical condition characterized by prolonged, unwanted, and uncontrollable genital arousal in the absence of sexual stimulation or desire. Individuals with PGAD may experience spontaneous and recurrent genital sensations, including tingling, throbbing, or restlessness, which can last for hours, days, or even longer. It’s important to note that these sensations are not associated with sexual desire, and while orgasm might offer temporary relief, it does not resolve the condition.
The causes of PGAD remain largely unknown. It’s believed that a combination of physiological, psychological, and neurological factors could contribute to its onset. Some potential causes or triggers include:
Nerve malfunction or damage: Traumas or surgeries in the pelvic area might affect the pudendal nerve, which carries sensations from the genitals. Conditions like Tarlov cysts can also irritate the nerve.
Blood vessel abnormalities: Irregular blood flow to the genital region might cause unwanted arousal.
Hormonal imbalances: Changes in hormonal levels, especially during menopause, might be linked to PGAD.
Medication side effects: Some drugs, especially SSRIs (antidepressants), have been reported to cause PGAD-like symptoms in some users.
Psychological factors: While PGAD is a physical disorder, stress, anxiety, and other emotional factors can exacerbate the symptoms.
The main symptom of PGAD is persistent and uncontrollable genital arousal. Other symptoms might include:
Frequent genital contractions or pulsations.
Sensitivity or tenderness in the genital area.
Distress, frustration, or depression due to the chronic nature of the disorder.
Management and Treatment:
Treatment for PGAD is largely individualized, depending on the underlying cause, if identified. Some approaches include:
Medication: Drugs that influence the nervous system, such as certain antidepressants, antiseizure drugs, or analgesics, may help in reducing symptoms.
Nerve block procedures: Anesthetic injections can be used to temporarily block the pudendal nerve and provide relief.
Physical therapy: Pelvic floor exercises and therapies can sometimes help in managing the symptoms.
Psychotherapy: Since PGAD can result in significant emotional distress, psychological counseling can be beneficial in coping with the condition.
Lifestyle changes: Some patients find relief by adjusting sitting positions, avoiding specific triggers, or using cooling pads.
PGAD is a challenging and often misunderstood disorder. Those affected not only struggle with the physical sensations but also face societal stigmas and misunderstandings. Increased awareness and research are vital to better understanding the condition, refining diagnostic criteria, and developing effective treatments. It’s crucial for affected individuals to seek medical advice and remember that they are not alone; support groups and communities exist to help individuals cope and share experiences.
Dec 2012 Update: It is with great sadness that we report that Gretchen committed suicide at the weekend, no longer able to live with Persistent genital arousal disorder.