For most people, on most occasions, sexual intercourse is an enjoyable experience that is extremely beneficial in terms of procreation. That being said, sometimes sexual intercourse can lead to complications and discomfort. Some may experiencestomach pain after sex, while others may feel vaginal pain and soreness. These symptoms would lead many people to ask why, read on to find out more.

Why Does My Stomach Hurt After Sex?

There are numerous causes for stomach pain after sex, some of which are detailed below:

1.     Emotional Reaction to Sex

When someone says that they have stomach pain, they may sometimes be referring to their abdomen as opposed to their actual stomach. If the pain is originating from the stomach, then it could be due to a bad emotional reaction to intercourse. If you feel feelings of anxiety, stress, sadness, or irritation before sex, that may be translated into physical symptoms, such as stomach pain.

2.     Orgasm

"Why does my stomach hurt after sex?" don't worry, in some cases, that could be your orgasm. For women, stomach pain may be a result of over contraction of the vaginal and uterine area caused by penis penetration and orgasms. This contracting can lead to the individual experiencing stomach pain.

3.     Rough Sex

It is highly possible that rough sex can lead to stomach pain after sex, due to the high amount and intensity put upon the lower abdominal area. Some women even state symptoms of constipation of diarrhoea for up to two days after intercourse.

4.     Endometriosis

During a woman's menstrual period, the uterus lining thickens and is released when bleeding occurs, endometriosis is where the same tissue that makes up the uterus lining begins to grow in other places, such as the ovaries. If that tissue thickens and begins to bleed, it can cause pain in the stomach, as it has no easy rout in which to escape from the body.

5.     Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

PID can be caused by sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia. This condition is where the uterus and the fallopian tubes become inflamed, causing pain and possibly damage. Although not many symptoms are associated with this condition, the pain may be a sign to visit your doctor, who will likely treat it with a course of antibiotics.

6.     Fibroids

Fibroids are a highly common condition that often causes no problems. That being said, fibroids can lead to pain during sex, heavier menstrual bleeding, and bleeding in between menstrual periods. Fibroids can be treated in numerous ways, and a visit to your doctor is advised to best determine the course of treatment best for you.

7.     Infections

If by chance the stomach pain that you experience is in fact pertaining to your abdomen, then it is highly possible that it is the result of an infection, such as a gynaecological or urinary tract infection.

What About Cramping After Sex, Is It Normal?

To put it simply, yes, cramping after sexual intercourse is a normal occurrence. This can be a result of penile penetration or discomfort in the urinary tract and/or bladder. To try and avoid this happening, try emptying your bladder (urinating) both before and after sex. If the cramping still persists, it is best to consult a health care professional to best determine the cause.

Safe Sex Tips You Must Follow

There are many tips to abide by when practicing safe sex that, when practiced, can help to avoid the sensation of any pain. Some tips to follow include:

• Opt for low-risk sexual activity that involves no exchange of fluid.
• Look out for any physical changes in both yours and your partner's genital area.
• Ensure that you test regularly for STDs if you are regularly having intercourse.
• Avoid drink and drugs, as this will impair your decision making capabilities.
• If you use sex-toys, ensure that they are sterilized before and after use.
• Avoid sharing needles and other drug paraphernalia.
• Get treatment if you have any sexually transmitted diseases.

Oral Sex

Oral sex includes oral/penis, oral/vagina, and oral/anal sex, and can also be practiced safely by following the tips below:

• Use a condom on the penis, or oral dam in the vagina or the anal area before you perform oral sex, to help prevent STDs.
• Hepatitis A can be transmitted via oral sex, acquiring the appropriate vaccine will help to prevent against it.

Vaginal Sex

• If it hurts during sexual intercourse, it would be wise to discontinue the activity.
• Always use a condom (unless trying to conceive, of course).
• Ensure to use lubricant that is water based, as other types of lubricant may lead to the condom dissolving.
• If inserting your fingers into the vagina, wear gloves to protect against STDs.
• If you are using sex toys for penetration, place a condom on them.

Anal Sex

• Like vaginal sex, if it hurts during anal sex, it would be wise to stop.
• Ensure to use lubricant that is water based, as other types of lubricant may lead to the condom dissolving.
• It is advisable to avoid the use of condoms that contain Nonoxynol-9, as this can damage tissue and lead to an increased risk of an STD.
• If inserting your fingers into the anus, wear gloves to protect against STDs.
• If you are using sex toys for penetration, place a condom on them, and ensure to wash them thoroughly afterwards (before inserting into the vagina).