The Post-coital Headache... An Unsexy Consequence of an Orgasm

The first time I ever experienced a post-coital headache was about fifteen years ago. I was about 23 years old and about to experience an intense orgasm when suddenly, my head exploded with a sharp, intense pain. I was worried, since I had never experienced such intense headaches before. But while the headache was very painful and unpleasant, it did go away. Unfortunately, I continued to have post-coital headaches for a few weeks. They were entirely related to sexual activity, which was a real bummer since a good orgasm is one of life's greatest pleasures.

Eventually, the headaches went away and I was able to enjoy sex again. I eventually forgot about them and went about living my life... that is, until last night. It was about 10:00 and I was in bed with my husband, once again riding the crest of a very nice orgasm when BAM! My head once again exploded with a sharp, intense, pain. This time, the pain was worse than it had ever been. It radiated from the top left side of my head, throbbing as if someone had struck me with a heavy lead pipe. I cried out in pain.

That wonderful orgasm that had been building dissipated very quickly and I was left with an extraordinary headache that I can still feel to a much milder degree almost twelve hours later. The post-coital headaches, also known as coital cephalgia or orgasm migraines, have struck again.

What causes post-coital headaches?

Post-coital headaches are thought to be caused by tension and exertion. Sexual activity can cause dramatic changes in blood pressure and blood flow, particularly in the head. While doctors haven't yet come up with a specific cause of intense headaches brought on by sex, they have classified them with headaches brought on by exercise.

Coital cephalgia can be brought on by any type of sexual activity, including masturbation. These headaches can come on slowly and intensify as sexual excitement increases, or they can be very sudden and explosive. The pain can be dull or very sharp. The pain can be anywhere in the head and neck region. Some experts believe that men are more susceptible to post-coital headaches, as are people who regularly experience migraine headaches.

What to do if you get a sex-related headache

While these headaches are usually no cause for concern, they can be a sign of a more serious problem. For that reason, it makes sense to visit a doctor if you've experienced a post-coital headache for the first time or if the pain is especially severe. If you experience vomiting, blurry vision, change in pupil size, or stiff neck, you may be dealing with a medical emergency. Get to a hospital immediately. Contact your health care professional if the pain persists for more than 24 hours.

If you know you're experiencing a benign post-coital headache, you can try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. Unfortunately, it's been my experience that pain relievers aren't that helpful, especially at first. You might have to just wait for the headache to abate on its own. A cool washcloth or an ice pack on the head may provide relief. Turn the lights down low and try to relax until the pain subsides.

Prevention

Obviously, one way to prevent a post-coital headache is to avoid sexual excitement. That means abstaining from masturbation and intercourse. Of course, that solution is a bit of a bummer. On the other hand, if the headaches are severe enough, they may make the idea of having sex unappealing anyway.

Some people have gotten relief by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen before they commence sexual activity. Others have been helped by taking prescription beta blockers, anti-inflammatory, or anti-migraine drugs. These drugs are generally only recommended for those who experience frequent or prolonged attacks. Another idea is to take a more passive role during sexual activity and try to relax, or even stop sexual activity as an orgasm builds.

If someone you love is experiencing a post-coital headache...

I have a lot of empathy for the partners of people who have post-coital headaches. It can be confusing, upsetting, and very frustrating to see your partner dealing with one of these intense attacks. On the other hand, if you've never experienced a post-coital headache, you might not understand just how agonizing they can be. If your partner suffers from frequent post-coital headaches, try to be supportive and patient. You might also encourage them to seek medical attention, since the headaches can be a sign of something more serious such as high blood pressure or even an impending stroke.

Post-coital headaches are definitely unsexy...

Thankfully, there is help for those who suffer from sexual headaches on a regular basis. Taking the appropriate preventive measures and working with a qualified healthcare professional can help people with these debilitating headaches feel sexy again.

Sources

Mayo Clinic "Sex Headaches" retrieved at http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/sex-headaches/DS00645

Baptist Health Systems "Sexual Headaches: From Ecstasy to Agony" retrieved at http://www.mbmc.org/healthgate/GetHGContent.aspx?token=9c315661-83b7-472d-a7ab-bc8582171f86&chunkiid=14520

Personal experience