These Symptoms Are (Relatively) Normal Following Sex


Muscle aches, bloating, and flushing are frequent symptoms
Hopefully, you're delightfully exhausted after sex and not too concerned about what's going on within your body. However, because sex is a full-body action, it is natural to suffer certain physical effects afterward.

"Sex means a lot of different things, takes many different forms, and can have different effects on each of our different bodies," OB/GYN Dr. Lyndsey Harper, creator of Rosy, tells Lifehacker. "There are numerous variables at work, which can result in a wide range of symptoms and experiences."

The following is a list of some of the most frequent physical symptoms that might occur after sex, and why they are typically not cause for concern.

Cramping

"Urine cramping can occur if the cervix (the bottom part of the uterus that lives at the top of the vagina) is touched during sex," Harper adds. "This may feel like cramping you might experience before your period or after a pelvic exam or pap smear."

According to Harper, cramping will usually resolve on its own within 30-60 minutes. She advises using a heating pad or a hot water bottle on the lower abdomen, as well as taking ibuprofen. If the cramping continues, becomes severe, or is followed by a considerable volume of bright red blood, she recommends getting medical assistance.

Bloating

Is your stomach full after sex? Bloating is frequent during and after intercourse, according to TBD Health doctor Lauren Haines. "Many people can experience bloating as a result of penetrative sex," she explains to Lifehacker. "Air can be pushed into the vagina or rectum during penetrative sex." If air becomes trapped, you may have stomach pain or bloating."

Bloating might occur more or less frequently depending on the position of your uterus, according to Haines. "You may need to experiment with different sex positions to reduce the risk of bloating and improve overall comfort," she advises. "Positions like cowgirl give you more control over the depth of penetration and can reduce bloating and discomfort."

According to Haines, bloating is usually innocuous, but if the bloating or discomfort is extreme, consult an in-person medical physician for examination.

Vaginal discomfort

Harper says it's typical for the vagina and pelvic floor to feel sore after sex if it's harsh or deep, or if you have penetrative sex with a larger partner or sex toy. Similarly, if there is insufficient lubrication, the friction of intercourse might cause some pain afterwards.

Fortunately, Harper adds the vaginal discomfort normally goes away on its own in 24-48 hours. "Avoid sex during the time of soreness to expedite healing and be sure to take note of what might have caused it in order to potentially avoid it in the future if possible," she says. "Lubrication is always a good idea, and if the soreness is caused by deep penetration, a product like OhNut can be beneficial." If the pain continues or intensifies, there is vaginal discharge or significant bleeding, it is important to seek medical treatment."

Flushing

Is your skin flushed after having sex? Flushing is a relatively frequent symptom that can occur during and after intercourse, according to Haines. "Flushing is a skin redness that typically occurs in the face, neck, and chest and is often caused by increased circulation and blood flow during arousal," she says. "There are no treatments available to prevent flushing, but flushing is completely normal and harmless."

According to Haines, flushing might occasionally resemble a rash, but it should never be itchy or create lumps or hives. "If you develop redness, itching, or hives, it could be an allergy," she says. "Allergies to sex toys, condoms, lubricants, or even your partner's sperm can occur." If an itching rash develops, see an in-person medical professional."

UTIs

According to Harper, getting a UTI after sex is rather frequent since penetrative sex and clitoral stimulation "can sometimes introduce bacteria to the opening of the urethra during sex." These bacteria can infrequently take hold, grow, and cause a urinary tract infection."

UTI symptoms include discomfort when urinating, lower abdominal cramps, and frequent urination, according to Harper. "If you notice these signs, drink plenty of water and contact your medical provider so they can help guide you on the quickest path to recovery," she says. "If left untreated, UTIs can lead to more serious infections, such as kidney infections."

Soreness in the muscles

Do you get a little achey after sex, like after a hard workout? Again, this is entirely normal. "Anyone who engages in sexual activity may experience muscle strain or soreness after sex," Haines adds. "According to some studies, sexual arousal and orgasm can increase pain tolerance, so you may be unaware that certain positions are causing discomfort or strain on your muscles or joints."

She recommends paying attention to your body and moving positions frequently to assist alleviate pain. If you suffer from muscular or joint pain, such as arthritis, Haines recommends employing sex aids such as wedge cushions, a Kama Sutra chair, or a sex stool.

Mild pain might continue for several hours or even days following sexual activity. Haines advises contacting 911 if you have significant discomfort or chest pain during or after intercourse. "If you continue to have muscle pain or soreness after sex, you should see your in-person medical provider for further evaluation," she suggests.

Spotting

Harper believes that most incidents of blood in underwear after sex are caused by insufficient lubrication, which can create minor rips on the labia or vagina. "In other cases, light spotting can be caused by uterine blood if you are about to start a cycle or during pregnancy," she explains.

Fortunately, spotting normally resolves itself within 24 hours of intercourse, according to Harper. However, if you experience a lot of bright red blood after intercourse, she suggests seeing a doctor. If you see spotting after sex every time, or even most of the time, she recommends seeing your OB/GYN and having an exam. "If you have spotting during pregnancy, notify your doctor at your next appointment or sooner if it persists," she adds.

SOURCE

What do you think of this blog? Write down at the COMMENT section below.

No comments: