Have you ever experienced abdominal discomfort after sexual activity and wondered what might be causing it?
Stomach pain following sex is not unusual, and various factors can contribute to it. While some causes are benign, others could indicate more serious health issues.
The expression “He shifted my womb” is a colloquial way of describing particularly deep and painful penetration, although this isn’t actually anatomically feasible.
Here are five reasons for abdominal pain after sex:
1. Sex Position
If you find yourself experiencing stomach pain after sex, it might be wise to avoid positions that allow for deep penetration. Certain sexual positions during vaginal or anal intercourse can lead to deeper thrusting, which may result in discomfort. To mitigate post-sex aches, consider adopting positions that allow the woman to control how deep penetration goes.
2. Tilted Uterus
About 25% of women have a tilted uterus, where the uterus leans backward at the cervix instead of forward. Although typically not a major concern, this condition can cause abdominal pain during or after sex.
A healthcare provider can diagnose and help manage this condition, recommending comfortable positions and angles to minimize discomfort.
3. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where uterine tissue abnormally grows outside the uterus, often in the pelvis or other areas. This misplaced tissue can cause pain in the lower back, pelvis, and abdomen during or after sexual intercourse, especially during menstrual cycles, and is often accompanied by severe menstrual cramps, irregular bleeding, painful bowel movements, and heavy or prolonged menstrual flow.
4. Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form inside or on the surface of the ovaries and are often painless. Larger cysts, however, can cause abdominal or lower stomach pain, especially during or after intercourse. Other symptoms may include bloating, discomfort in the lower back or thighs, and a sensation of fullness in the abdomen.
5. Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that affect about one in three women. They can cause symptoms such as abdominal or lower back pain, heavy menstrual periods, stomach discomfort, constipation, and pain during or following sexual activity.
In addition to these conditions, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also lead to pain after intercourse.
