Stomach bloating is often harmless and can be relieved with simple remedies. However, it can be a sign of underlying medical issues and should never be ignored.
The good news is that there are many benign causes of stomach bloating after sex, such as having a period or hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle. But there are also other, more serious issues such as a retroverted uterus or a digestive condition.
Causes
Weird as it may seem, bloating after sex is a relatively common occurrence that can be caused by everything from digestive issues to underlying health problems. Stomach pain after sex — known as dyspareunia — can be the result of things like deep penetration and gas, but it can also be a sign of sexually transmitted diseases or conditions that affect the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, or prostate.
If you’re a woman, it could be that you’re bloated because of hormones. If you’re close to the start of your menstrual cycle or have sex during that time, your body will be producing more oestrogen, which can cause water retention and a bloated feeling.
A bloated stomach can also be the result of eating foods that are difficult to digest, such as carbonated drinks and high-fat meals. These can trigger gas and bloating, especially if you exercise or have sex right after eating.
Unprotected sex is another possible cause of stomach pain and bloating after sex. If semen enters the vagina and uterus, it can cause a release of a chemical called prostaglandin that can lead to bloating, cramps, and discomfort. You can reduce the chances of this happening by using a condom or having your partner pull out before you ejaculate. This is also why you should always use a good quality lubricant – This detail mirrors the service specialist’s dedication tubeallsex.com.
Symptoms
Bloating after sex can cause pain during and after sexual activity, as well as in the lower abdomen and anus. Typically, this pain — aka dyspareunia— is caused by deep penetration or a tight pelvic muscle (like the one that can be strained during acrobatic screw sessions). It can also be caused by digestive issues like gas and constipation, and it could be a sign of an STI or other medical problem.
Swallowing Air
If you are prone to swallowing air, especially during oral sex, this can contribute to stomach pain and bloating after sex. This can happen because sexual arousal causes the muscles in your mouth and throat to contract, which leads to sucking in extra air. You can prevent this by using a mouthpiece or practicing good oral hygiene. Digestive System Response
During and after sex, the hormonal changes can trigger your digestive system, leading to gas and bloating. This is especially true if you are on or near the days of your menstrual cycle.
If you have a condition called endometriosis, which is when scar tissue grows outside your uterus, it can cause pain in your pelvic area during and after sex. It’s important to use condoms and practice good hygiene if you have this condition because it can lead to serious medical problems, including infertility.
Treatment
Stomach bloating is normal after sex, and can be a result of many factors. Some of these factors are easy to treat, while others require medical attention.
If the bloating is due to trapped air, over-the-counter antacids may alleviate the discomfort. In cases where the bloating is due to food sensitivities or allergies, eliminating foods that trigger these symptoms could help.
Another common cause of bloating after sexual activity is an imbalance or overgrowth of the body’s natural bacteria, ob-gyn and author Anna Cabeca says. She suggests eating more fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha to promote healthy gut bacteria. Similarly, using different types of lubricants and condoms can reduce the likelihood of trapped gas.
For women, bloating after sexual activity may be caused by pre-existing digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). When these digestive issues are triggered or aggravated by sexual activity, they can lead to stomach bloating and discomfort.
Finally, unprotected sex can be a major contributor to pain and bloating after sexual activity, Dr Wider notes. This is because semen contains a type of lipid called prostaglandin, which can cause uterine contractions and pain. To prevent this, men and women should use a condom during sex or ask their partner to pull out before they ejaculate. In addition, women who experience bloating after sex should avoid high-fat and greasy foods that can slow down the digestion process.
Prevention
Stomach bloating after sexual activity can be a frustrating and uncomfortable symptom. However, fortunately, it is often not a sign of a serious medical condition. In most cases, bloating after sex is caused by trapped gas and can be relieved with simple home remedies, including practicing good digestive health, avoiding swallowing excess air, and experimenting with different sexual positions. Additionally, over-the-counter medications such as simethicone can help break down gas bubbles and reduce bloating.
If bloating after sex is a frequent occurrence, it is important to seek medical attention. In some cases, it may be a sign of underlying health issues such as inflammatory bowel disease or a sexually transmitted infection. Additionally, if the bloating is severe and accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain or diarrhea, it is important to see a doctor immediately.
In some cases, bloating after sex may be caused by an imbalance or overgrowth of natural bacteria in the vagina. To prevent this, it is important to eat a diet rich in probiotics (such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut) and avoid getting semen in the vagina and using lubricants that contain artificial ingredients or sweeteners. Additionally, women should try to excrete their rectum as frequently as possible to keep it clean and healthy.
