Why does my stomach hurt after sex

Experiencing abdominal discomfort after sexual activity can be both confusing and distressing. While many view pain after intimacy as a sign of something serious, there are a range of common and benign causes. Understanding why your stomach may hurt after sex empowers you to identify triggers, adopt practical measures for comfort and know when to seek medical advice if needed.

Muscle cramping from positioning and exertion
Sexual activity engages core and pelvic muscles in ways that may be unfamiliar or more intense than routine exercise. Prolonged positions that require holding the torso at an angle or sudden movements can strain abdominal muscles. This strain may lead to delayed onset muscle soreness or cramping that becomes noticeable once you relax. Gentle stretching of the core and keeping hips supported during intercourse help prevent overexertion.

Depth of penetration and pelvic discomfort
Deep penetration can place pressure on the uterus, ovaries or the space behind the cervix. For some women this pressure is uncomfortable or painful, especially if the angle of intercourse stresses ligaments that support the pelvic organs. Communication with your partner, adjusting positions to control depth and using pillows for support under the hips can reduce this pressure and ease postcoital discomfort.

Gas and bloating
During sex air can be pushed into the vagina and trapped in the digestive tract due to motion or pelvic floor contractions. This air may move upward into the intestines and cause gas or bloating in the lower abdomen. The sensation can feel like sharp pangs or a dull ache after intercourse. Gentle massage of the abdomen, walking or lying on your side with knees drawn up can help the trapped gas pass more quickly and relieve pain.

Irritation from friction and lubrication
Insufficient natural lubrication can lead to friction and mild irritation of the vaginal tissues. The resulting inflammation may extend to surrounding pelvic structures and cause lower abdominal discomfort. Using a water based lubricant reduces friction and protects delicate tissues. If lubrication remains a challenge, talking with your GP about hormonal factors or moisturising products can provide relief.

Ovarian and uterine conditions
Conditions such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease or ovarian cysts often manifest as pain during or after intercourse. Endometriosis causes uterine lining tissue to grow in other areas of the pelvis and can lead to sharp pain during deep penetration or cramping afterwards. Ovarian cysts may stretch the ovary’s capsule when pressure is applied, resulting in a dull ache. If pain is recurrent, severe or associated with heavy periods and other symptoms such as fever or abnormal discharge you should seek gynaecological assessment.

Urinary tract irritation and infections
The close proximity of the vagina and urethra means that intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. This microtrauma can lead to mild cystitis with discomfort or a burning sensation in the lower abdomen after sex. Drinking plenty of water before and after intercourse, urinating soon after sex and practising good genital hygiene help flush bacteria and reduce irritation. If you develop a true urinary tract infection you may notice urgency and burning on urination and should contact your GP for antibiotics.

Digestive issues and irritable bowel syndrome
IBS and other functional gastrointestinal disorders can be sensitive to physical activity and stress. The increase in abdominal pressure and shifts in posture during intercourse may trigger cramping or spasms in the colon. These spasms can produce pain that begins during sex or emerges shortly afterwards. Identifying dietary triggers, practising relaxation techniques and adopting gentle abdominal massage may help manage IBS related pain during and after sex.

Pelvic floor tension and vaginismus
Involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles during intercourse leads to discomfort and can cause a lingering ache in the lower abdomen. Stress, anxiety or a history of pain with sex can contribute to pelvic floor tension known as vaginismus. Pelvic floor physiotherapy with guided relaxation and targeted exercises helps restore normal muscle function and reduces postcoital pain.

Psychological factors and stress responses
Emotional stress and anxiety around sexual activity can manifest physically as muscle tension throughout the abdomen and pelvis. The body’s stress response increases the release of cortisol and adrenaline which can heighten pain perception. Mindfulness practices, open communication with your partner and seeking support from a counsellor when needed help reduce anxiety and ease physical tension during and after intimacy.

Food and beverage interactions
Eating a large meal or consuming gas producing foods such as beans, cruciferous vegetables or fizzy drinks too close to sexual activity can leave you bloated and uncomfortable. The physical exertion of sex combined with a full stomach may trigger indigestion or cramping. Planning lighter meals and avoiding known gastrointestinal triggers on days when you anticipate intercourse can minimise digestive discomfort afterwards.

End of cycle and hormonal influences
Hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle can alter pain thresholds, fluid balance and gut motility. Many women report increased abdominal sensitivity during the premenstrual phase or around ovulation. If sex coincides with these times the combination of hormonal changes and physical stimulation may produce more noticeable pain afterwards. Tracking your cycle and noting patterns in postcoital pain helps identify any hormonal component.

When to seek medical advice
Occasional mild discomfort that resolves within a few hours or a day usually does not require professional attention. However you should consult your GP or a gynaecologist if you experience severe pain, recurring pain with every intercourse, pain that interferes with daily life, or if you have additional symptoms such as fever, heavy bleeding, unusual discharge or gastrointestinal changes. Early evaluation can identify treatable conditions and prevent long term complications.

Self care strategies for relief
To ease abdominal pain after sex apply a warm heat pack to the lower belly for ten to fifteen minutes. Gentle abdominal stretches or walking can promote circulation and relieve muscle tension. Over the counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen taken according to the instructions may help. Staying well hydrated, practising pelvic relaxation exercises and communicating openly with your partner about comfort during sex support a more comfortable experience.

Summary
Abdominal pain after sex may result from muscle cramping, deep penetration pressure, trapped gas, tissue irritation, gynecological conditions, urinary tract involvement, digestive disorders, pelvic floor tension, stress or hormonal changes. Most causes respond to self care measures such as adjusting positions, using lubrication, applying warmth, gentle movement and over the counter medication. Persistent or severe pain accompanied by other symptoms warrants medical evaluation to identify any underlying condition and guide effective treatment so you can enjoy pain free intimacy.