Some women experience severe headaches during or after sex, sometimes requiring ibuprofen, according to a recent report by Metro. One Reddit user described the pain as the 'worst headache' of their life, 'felt like pounding all over my head for 30 minutes,' while another called it 'explosive' and 'excruciating.'
What Causes Post-Sex Headaches?
Sexual health expert Sarah Mulindwa, who works with Lovehoney, told Metro that for some people, these headaches feel like a dull ache or pressure around the head and neck that gradually becomes stronger as they approach orgasm. For others, the pain can come on suddenly at orgasm, and while it may disappear quickly, symptoms can persist for several hours in some cases.
During sex, the body experiences increased heart rate and blood pressure, and muscles around the head, neck, and shoulders become tense. Mulindwa explains: 'That combination of increased physical exertion and muscle tension is thought to contribute to headaches.' Sex is a form of physical exertion, and for those susceptible to exertion-related headaches, the physiological build-up to orgasm may act as a trigger.
Triggers and Risk Factors
Various factors can increase susceptibility, including tiredness, stress, dehydration, alcohol consumption, or tension in the neck and shoulders. Additionally, a 2022 YouGov study found that women are less likely to orgasm during intercourse, with only 30% reporting orgasming every time, compared to 61% of men. While the orgasm gap is a separate issue, it highlights the complexity of female sexual response.
Clinical sexologist and psychotherapist Ness Cooper told Metro that hormones also play a role. She explains: 'Some people have sensitivities to spikes and dips, such as sensitivities to prolactin and oestrogen. For some, it's not an off-balance, but a sensitivity to these hormones which can be activated during orgasm, which can cause changes to the vascular system and then lead to headaches.' Serotonin levels can also become imbalanced, increasing the likelihood of a sore head.
How Sex Positions Contribute
Sex positions can also influence headaches. Cooper notes: 'Muscle weakness or certain positions can lead to muscle tension, and that can cause tension headaches. Some women find going on top is less stable for them, while others may find doggy can move the body too much and cause tension.' Positions where the head is held angled downwards for long periods can also contribute, so adjusting support with pillows or changing angles may help.
When to Seek Medical Help
Mulindwa emphasizes the importance of consulting a medical professional if sex-induced headaches recur. She urges: 'Although many sex-related headaches are benign, a sudden, extremely severe headache during or immediately after orgasm should never automatically be assumed to be an orgasm headache. If it's the first time you've experienced an explosive headache, or particularly if the pain reaches maximum intensity within seconds or around a minute — you should seek urgent medical assessment. The same applies if it's accompanied by vomiting, confusion, fainting, weakness, problems with speech or vision, or a stiff neck.'
She adds: 'While we shouldn't frighten people who occasionally experience a mild headache after sex, a new, sudden and exceptionally severe headache is something that needs to be taken seriously.'
