Nothing destroys the mood quite like bloating after sex. Those who have experienced it know that it beats at the worst times, causing pain and discomfort When all you want to do is to sit back and enjoy the post-orgasmic happiness. But even though it may seem strange to inflate after sex – and even a little awkward – it is not uncommon. In fact, bloating after six hands more often than you might think. Fortunately, there are ways to make it better.
In order to successfully relieve bloating by gender you must first understand why It happens. There are some common sinners that may be behind it, including (shock) your period, a bacterial imbalance, irritating bowel syndrome (IBS), and even a retro of uterus. It is likely not to be A quick solution To facilitate your symptoms, but understanding some of the potential causes can help you get to the bottom of your bloating (or at least give you and your doctor a jumping point when it’s time to deal with it).
Although everyone’s body is different, we asked ob-gyms to break down some of the most common causes of bloating after sex. In front they share their best tips for relieving symptoms and Handle bloating altogetherSo you can get back to enjoying a painless afterglow.
The editor’s note: We at PS realize that not everyone who has a vagina is a woman. For this particular story, the experts we interviewed to people with vaginas as women.
Experts displayed in this article:
Jennifer widerMD, is a women’s health expert, writer and radio host.
Anna -HeadMD, DO, Facog, is a triple board-certified ob-gyn and author who specializes in sexual health and functional medicine.
Causes of bloating after sex
Many factors can get someone to blow after sex, some of which are more serious than others. Here are some to think about, according to experts:
- Menstrual cycle and hormones: Hormonal changes affect the body in many ways (“Hormonal stomach“Is an excellent example). For example, if you are at your period, there may be a relatively simple explanation as to why you inflated after sex.” Often women will experience bloating before and/or during menstruation, so if they have intercourse around that time of month, it is likely to play a role, “says women’s health expert, Jennifer wider, MD.
- Bacterial imbalance: Another potential cause of bloating after sex is an imbalance or overgrowth of the natural bacteria in your vagina, says OB-gyn Anna Cabeca, MD, DO, Facog. This can cause problems such as Yeast infections and Bacterial vaginosis. These types of irritating infections are sometimes triggered by sperm in the vagina or Lubricant with artificial ingredients. Douching can also adversely affect your vaginal bacteria, according to Dr. Cabeca. To help, Dr. Cabeca Incorporates more probiotics (AKA fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut and kombucha) in your diet to keep your vaginal bacteria healthy and balanced. You may also want to avoid getting semen in your vagina (more about it below) and avoid personal lubricants that use artificial ingredients, such as glycerine, parabens and all kinds of flavors or scents.
- Digestation problems: A more serious issue that can cause bloating means the intestine. If you have a history of indigestion – as constipationIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or indigestion – Dr. Wider says you may be inclined to inflate after sexual intercourse. Symptoms to look for include constipation, cramp, abdominal pain and diarrhea. If you have problems with digestion, Dr. Wider to avoid foods that tend to make people gassy, such as beans and legumes, before intercourse. If you are still experiencing bloating, Dr. wider also to consume ginger, as Studies has shown that it can reduce gastrointestinal pain and bloating.
- Unprotected sex: Having unprotected sex with someone who has a penis can also cause cramps and stomach pain after sex. According to Dr. Wider, if sperm enters your vagina, prostaglandin (a type of lipid) found in sperm can cause uterine contractions and discomfort, which may include bloating. You can avoid this by using a condom during sex or by pulling out your partner before ejaculation. That said, condoms are generally a much safer investment.
- Using a condom with a latex allergy: Unfortunately, sex with a condom can also cause bloating for some people, says Dr. Cabeca, as latex allergies can lead to inflammation and bloating. According to Mayo ClinicOther symptoms of a latex allergy may include itching, skin redness, hives or rashes and cold -like symptoms (such as sneezing, running nose, cough or a scraped neck). If you think you can have a latex allergy, talk to a doctor for correct diagnosis and treatment.
Although these tips can help, there is not a quick solution for bloating after sex. The good news is that it should be spread on its own after a few hours. If it does not, or if you experience it consistently, recommend Dr. Wider to consult a healthcare provider for more personal medical advice.
– Further reporting of Maggie Ryan, Alexis Jones and Chandler Plante
Chandler Plante (She/her) is the assistant health and fitness editor for PS. She has over four years of experience in professional journalism, who previously worked as an editorial assistant for the magazine People and contributes to Ladygunn, Millie and Bustle Digital Group.
Alexis Jones is senior health and fitness editor on ps. Her passions and areas of expertise include women’s health and fitness, mental health, racial and ethnic differences in health care and chronic conditions. Before she came to PS, she was a senior editor at Health Magazine. Her second bylines are available at Women’s Health, Prevention, Marie Claire and more.
Maggie Ryan Was assistant editor at PS. Maggie is a long -term runner and athlete and has almost four years of experience in covering topics in the wellness space, specializing in fitness, sports, nutrition and mental health.
Tamara Pridegett Was associated editor with PS Fitness. She is a NASM certified personal trainer and precision Nutrition Level 1 coach and was an All-American sprinter in Division 1.