Comorbidities Associated with Dhat Syndrome

Dhat syndrome is a culture-bound syndrome and it is commonly referred to as “sexual neurosis.” It is widely prevalent in the Indian subcontinent. The patients presenting with this syndrome are unduly concerned with real or perceived semen loss complaints and have several psychological, somatic, and sexual symptoms that are causatively attributed to the semen loss. Comorbidities with dhat syndrome are common. Psychiatric disorders like depression, anxiety disorders, somatoform disorders, as well as sexual dysfunctions like erectile dysfunctions, premature ejaculation, decreased desire, reduced sexual stamina, and poor sexual confidence are commonly reported issues along with dhat syndrome. Comorbidities also impact the quality of life, functioning, distress as well as coping in patients with Dhat syndrome. The presence of comorbidities with Dhat syndrome has important implications for the clinical assessments, management, and treatment strategies needed for the management of the cases.