Sexsomnia, a rare sleep disorder, involves individuals engaging in sexual activity while asleep, with no recollection of their actions upon waking. This condition, a form of parasomnia where consciousness and unconsciousness blur during sleep cycles, is estimated to affect one to two percent of the population, and is reported to be more common in men.
The disorder has gained increased public attention in recent years due to its use as a defense in sexual assault cases. In one instance last year, an Australian man was acquitted of non-consensual sex after claiming he experienced a sexsomnia episode. Similarly, in 2024, a British woman received a substantial settlement after her alleged rapist was acquitted before trial, with sleep experts attesting to the possibility of sexsomnia affecting him.
For individuals experiencing sexsomnia, like the case of a man referred to as Matt, the condition can cause significant distress and strain on relationships. Matt's partner discovered his nocturnal activities, which progressed from accidental touches to more aggressive sexual behaviors during sleep. Initially unsure of the cause, she researched the phenomenon and eventually learned about sexsomnia. This revelation was deeply upsetting for Matt, who felt "rapey" and "like a freak" due to his inability to control his actions while asleep and his lack of memory.
Diagnosing sexsomnia can be challenging, despite its recognition in the International Classification of Sleep Disorders in 2005. Diagnosis typically involves sleep studies that monitor brain waves, heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels, and movements, along with accounts from a partner. Sleep expert Dr. Oliver Bernath notes that the condition can create ambivalence and strain within couples, with potential impacts ranging from annoyance to forced separation or even allegations of rape.
Dr. Bernath explains that sexsomnia is not associated with sexual dreams. Instead, it occurs during partial awakenings from Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) sleep. While medically benign and not linked to brain disease, the behaviors can be problematic.
Factors that can trigger sexsomnia include excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and lack of sleep. No definitive cause has been identified, and it is unclear why some individuals are affected. There is no known link to hormone levels or libido. For many, the condition is episodic and can be managed through lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy sleep routine, avoiding screens before bed, and practicing relaxation techniques. In some cases, medications like antidepressants may be prescribed.
Matt has since sought medical attention and is awaiting a referral to a sleep specialist. He is actively working on reducing alcohol intake and establishing a healthier bedtime routine. These changes have led to a significant decrease in sexsomnia episodes, from multiple times a week to once every few months. Both Matt and his partner report that their waking relationship and intimacy have since improved.