During and after sexual activity, the body experiences a lot of weird things. One of them is bloating.
This can be caused by swallowing air, by changing positions during sex, by increased blood flow, or by eating certain foods. It can also be a sign of more serious medical issues such as a fistula.
1. You are having unprotected sex.
Having unprotected sex can cause a lot of things to happen in the body that may lead to gas and cramps. For example, it’s very common for semen to enter the vagina during sex and this can trigger uterine contractions. This can also cause bloating in the abdomen because of the pain and pressure from the contractions. Using different types of lubricants or condoms can also contribute to gas because some of them contain ingredients that can cause bloating and/or trapped air.
Another reason you might be so gassy after sex is because of the physical movements and positions used during sexual activity. Sometimes, the movement of the penis in and out of the vagina can push air up into the anus or vagina. This can cause a sound like farting and feel like bubbles in the belly. It can also cause a condition called spontaneous pneumoperitoneum, which causes chest and abdominal pain. It’s 10/10 important to use a barrier method when having sex.
Passing gas during sex is actually completely normal and nothing to be embarrassed about. However, if you are constantly passing gas during sex, or you notice other symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, or weight loss, it’s best to consult with a medical professional to ensure that there is no underlying health issue causing your symptoms.
2. You are eating too much.
When we eat too much, our body produces extra gas that may lead to pain and discomfort during and after sexual activity. This is especially true if we are eating foods that cause us to be gassy, such as beans or broccoli.
Another common cause of stomach pain after sex is deep penetration. This can be caused by the doggy style or missionary position, which allows for deep thrusting. It can also be caused by a tilted uterus, which affects 20-30% of women. This can cause the uterus to be pulled on or away from the pelvic bones, which can make it uncomfortable and painful for both partners.
Lastly, farting during sex can be a sign of gut issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome or food intolerances. These conditions can cause a slew of poop probs, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and constipation.
Despite the numerous causes of gas after sex, it is a fairly common and usually benign phenomenon that can be prevented with lifestyle changes. Practicing mindful eating, switching up sexual positions, and avoiding certain types of lubricants can all help reduce the chances of experiencing gassy after-sex. If symptoms persist, however, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance. Taking these steps can ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable sexual experience.
3. You are having an orgasm.
While we all love orgasms (and it is totally normal to have them), they can sometimes cause pain in your abdomen. This pain is most likely due to trapped gas caused by a combination of factors. These include swallowed air, positioning, and dietary habits. The physical activity of sex can also disrupt the flow of blood to your digestive tract and can cause bacteria to produce more gas, which can lead to bloating.
Swallowed air is common during sexual activity as you move your body to explore different positions. These movements can also lead to penetrative sex, which may push air into the vagina or anus and cause it to become trapped. Similarly, if you are using a lubricant with glycerin or other artificial ingredients it can produce more gas and lead to pain.
Orgasms are a physical reflex that occurs during sexual stimulation of the clitoris or labia (the inner and outer lips of the vulva). As you become aroused, blood flow increases to your genitals and the muscles in your pelvic floor and abdomen tense up. These contractions cause the clitoris to contract intensely, which leads to a big release of pleasure and endorphins. However, the squeezing movement can also cause trapped wind in your abdomen which can create abdominal pain. Luckily, this type of stomach pain is usually short-lived.
4. You are having a fistula.
A fistula, which is an abnormal connection between the vagina and bowel, can cause gas pains after sex. A gynecologist can help you diagnose whether this is the case for you by performing a pelvic exam. They can then either open up the tract or remove it completely. The latter option is better for long-term health as the fistula can lead to cancer in the future.
If you have a history of digestive issues, such as IBS or constipation, then you may be more prone to having gas after sex, according to a gynecologist. This is because the stress of sex and intimate activities can cause your gut muscles to tense up. It can also result in your stomach filling up, leading to bloating.
However, most of the time, excessive gas after sex is not something to worry about. It is usually a normal occurrence, and can be relieved by eating mindfully and practicing good digestion habits. But if you have symptoms that are severe or persistent, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional, as they may be a sign of a medical condition that needs treatment. For example, if you have a lot of stomach pain after sex, it could be due to an underlying condition like ovarian cysts or pelvic inflammatory disease. In this case, it is best to consult a gynecologist for diagnosis and treatment.
