While I don’t believe that I have ever experienced this personally, I have heard of women who have headaches during or soon after intercourse.   I decided to do some reading on this topic to find out some more information.

Sex headaches are headaches brought on by sexual activity — especially an orgasm. You may notice a dull ache in your head and neck that builds up as sexual excitement increases. Or, more commonly, you may experience a sudden, severe headache just before or during orgasm. The most common headache happens with basically no warning and usually during the build up of an orgasm.   You may notice a dull ache on the sides of your head, jaw clenching, neck tension, and can intensify as sexual excitement increases.  They can last for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

What causes these?  The head and neck muscles can tighten up during sexual activity that causes a headache to start.  It could also be a response to increased blood pressure and heart rate during orgasm.  I know I would probably be more susceptible to headaches while I have sinus infections, too.

In some cases, your first sex headache may also be your last one. And many sex headaches last for such a short period of time, the pain is gone before any pill you take can work. If they are severe and/or chronic, you will want to consult your doctor.  Your doctor might prescribe either beta blockers daily (if you are prone to them a lot) or indomethacin or triptans can be prescribed and taken as a preventative.  Only your doctor can choose a plan that is best for you.

So, what is your experience?  Have you ever had these?  How do you manage them?  Let’s get your feedback!