dhât

Dhât, also spelled Dhat syndrome, is a culture-bound syndrome described in parts of South Asia, particularly in India and Pakistan. It refers to a condition characterized by the patient's belief that they are losing vital bodily fluids, primarily semen, through nocturnal emissions, pre-ejaculatory fluid, or sometimes urine. This belief is often accompanied by a range of physical and psychological symptoms, including weakness, fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, palpitations, dizziness, and sexual dysfunction.

The syndrome is thought to be rooted in cultural beliefs about the preciousness and limited quantity of semen. In many traditional societies, semen is considered a vital essence that, once lost, cannot be replenished, leading to significant health problems. This belief system can be reinforced by misinformation or misinterpretations of physiological processes.

Diagnosis of Dhât syndrome is primarily based on the patient's subjective complaints and their interpretation of bodily sensations within a specific cultural context. There is no specific objective biological marker for the syndrome. Treatment often involves a combination of reassurance, psychoeducation, and addressing any underlying psychological distress such as anxiety or depression. Addressing the cultural beliefs and anxieties surrounding semen loss is a crucial aspect of therapeutic intervention.