An intense orgasm can leave thighs shaking or skin sensitive, but some women experience a lesser-known result: post-orgasm cramping. This type of pelvic pain is traditionally associated with periods or ovulation, but it can also be triggered by sexual activity.
Women share their experiences online
On the r/WomensHealth Subreddit, user @u/No-Caterpillar-8922 wrote: “I have an IUD, and these cramps started shortly after I had it placed. After I orgasm, I sometimes get pretty noticeable cramps in my pelvic area. They usually last for around 10 to 15 minutes before settling down. It seems to happen more often and feels stronger when I orgasm from masturbation than during sex. It's not unbearable, but it can be quite uncomfortable.”
Another user, @u/Secure-Put-8549, described experiencing cramps in their lower abdomen after sex that feel like “air is trapped in my body and it can't escape.”
What is dysorgasmia?
Post-orgasmic cramps and similar symptoms are called dysorgasmia. Dr Clair Grainger, from Superdrug Online Doctor, told Metro it is a term broadly used to describe pain “during or after orgasm.” She explained: “For some women, this can feel like cramping, aching or a sharper pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area. During an orgasm, the pelvic floor muscles contract rhythmically, and the uterus can contract too, so some people may experience mild, short-lived cramping afterwards.”
Recurring pain can be associated with underlying medical issues, including pelvic floor dysfunction, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or pelvic inflammatory disease, according to Dr Grainger. She advised considering other symptoms: “Pain during sex, unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding, pain when urinating, or changes to your periods can all help a healthcare professional understand what might be going on. Some sexually transmitted infections can cause pelvic pain and may not always cause obvious symptoms, so if you've had unprotected sex, a new sexual partner or think you may have been exposed to an STI, it's sensible to get tested.”
Dr Grainger stressed the importance of seeing a doctor rather than self-diagnosing, as several conditions can cause similar symptoms. She added: “Sudden or severe pelvic pain, particularly alongside fever, heavy bleeding, dizziness or feeling very unwell, should be assessed urgently.”
Does contraception affect cramping?
While some women report post-sex cramps intensifying or starting after having a coil fitted, Dr Grainger said there is no strong evidence to support this. “The relationship between contraception and pelvic pain is complex,” she said. “In fact, some hormonal contraceptives can help manage painful periods and symptoms associated with conditions such as endometriosis.”
She noted that people can respond differently to contraception and advised discussing any changes in pain after starting a new hormonal contraceptive with a doctor, rather than stopping it without medical advice. She added that Superdrug Online Doctor's Pill Consultation Service allows women to complete an online consultation reviewed by a doctor, which can help determine the most suitable pill.
