Unwanted Overtures by Night, Remorse by Day

Abstract

Sexual behavior in sleep has only recently been recognized as a variant of non–rapid-eye-movement (NREM) arousal parasomnias. This chapter discusses a case of sexsomnia precipitated by obstructive sleep apnea, the ensuing impact on the subject and his bed partner, and evaluation and management strategies. Sexsomnia is suspected to be highly underreported and carries significant physical, psychosocial, and forensic ramifications. Polysomnography with expanded electroencephalography can help identify concurrent sleep disorders and exclude other etiologies such as epilepsy. Treatment of comorbid sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea and sleep deprivation is highly effective in controlling the abnormal sexual behavior. There is a pressing need for research and expansion of current understanding to develop a standardized approach to evaluation and management of sexsomnia.