Restless Genital Syndrome (RGS): What are the Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery Time?

Restless Genital Syndrome (RGS), also known as Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD), is a rare condition characterized by spontaneous, persistent, and unwanted genital arousal without sexual desire or stimulation. Individuals with RGS experience intrusive sensations in the genital area, such as tingling, burning, or pain, which are not relieved by orgasm and can last for hours or days.

What Causes Restless Genital Syndrome?

The exact cause of RGS syndrome is not fully understood, but several factors have been associated with its development:​

• Neurological Factors: Dysfunction in sensory processing within the pudendal nerve's terminal branches or pelvic vasocongestion has been implicated.
• Vascular Factors: Pelvic varices and vasocongestion may contribute to the symptoms.
• Medication Withdrawal: Discontinuation of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) has been linked to the onset of RGS symptoms.
• Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction: Issues with the pelvic floor muscles may play a role in the development of RGS.
  
  

Restless Genital Syndrome Symptoms

Individuals with RGS syndrome may experience:​

• Unrelenting, spontaneous, and unwanted genital arousal.​
• Discomfort described as itching, contraction, pain, or swelling in the genital area without sexual stimulation.
• Sensations similar to impending orgasm devoid of sexual desire or stimulation.
  
  

Diagnosis of Restless Genital Syndrome

Diagnosing RGS syndrome involves

• A thorough medical history and symptom assessment.​
• Exclusion of other conditions with similar symptoms, such as hypersexuality or other sexual dysfunctions.
• Consideration of potential underlying causes, including neurological or vascular factors.
  
  

Restless Genital Syndrome Treatment

Treating Restless Genital Syndrome (RGS) usually requires a mix of different approaches because the condition can involve both physical and emotional factors. A treatment plan is often customized to meet the needs of each individual and may include:

• Medications: Doctors often use medicines to help reduce the symptoms of RGS. This may include antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and pain medications for nerve issues. These medicines help to control the abnormal nerve signals that cause unwanted sensations in the genital area.
• Pelvic Health Physical Therapy: This type of therapy focuses on the muscles and nerves in the pelvic region. A trained therapist can use different techniques, such as manual therapy and relaxation exercises, to help reduce sensitivity and calm the nervous system. This therapy can also help with muscle problems or nerve issues that may be causing or worsening the symptoms.
• Behavioral Health Support: Since RGS can be stressful and emotionally challenging, therapy can be very helpful. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), talk therapy, and stress management techniques are often used to help people cope with the emotional effects of RGS. These approaches can also help reduce anxiety or stress that may make the symptoms worse.

By using a combination of treatments, people with RGS can manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

Other Names for Restless Genital Syndrome

• Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD)
• Persistent Sexual Arousal Syndrome (PSAS)

These terms are often used interchangeably to describe the same condition.