Having sex with your partner can be an emotional rollercoaster: it can make you feel energized, or maybe just a little nauseous. One of the most common negative experiences is flu-like symptoms after sex. This includes symptoms such as headache, fever, stomach pain, fatigue, sinus problems and sore throat. Normally people expect to feel that ‘glow’ after sex. Is it normal to have flu-like symptoms after sex?
In general, these symptoms can vary normally. You may have the flu; But if these symptoms persist, worsen, or you are concerned about your sexual health, it is important to get tested for STDs as soon as possible. This will not only alleviate your concerns but also prevent possible complications. It’s completely understandable that these symptoms can be discouraging after sex. But depending on the situation, this can be easily remedied.
Possible causes
There are several reasons why you may not feel well after sex. The following is a non-inclusive list of possible reasons, some of which are slightly more common than others. These cases range in degrees from harmless to more serious conditions that require testing, diagnosis and treatment.
Influenza
While your mind may wander thinking that the worst is the case, it’s very likely that your flu-like symptoms are simply that: the flu. Flu is not the most comfortable illness, but millions of people deal with it every year. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), this virus poses a greater risk to the elderly and children under 5 years of age. Complications can occur at any age, but antiviral medications are available to treat this disease.
Postorgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS)
Postorgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) is a fairly rare condition, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This syndrome involves experiencing symptoms similar to flu or an allergic reaction after an orgasm. The cause of this disease has yet to be discovered; However, many speculate that it is caused by an autoimmune disease or an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. The chance that POIS is the cause is quite unlikely, but should not be ruled out.
Emotional response
Our emotions can have a significant effect on our physical and mental well-being. When we have our first time, find a new partner, or try something new, nerves can cause stomach upset. Of course, this is a completely normal reaction that disappears over time. Having sex can be a time of vulnerability when everyone feels anxious. Nevertheless, open communication with your partner should alleviate any nervous feelings and strengthen the relationship.
Rough sex
Stomach pain may be due to rougher sex than you’re used to. More aggressive or energetic sex can be exhausting and make you feel temporarily nauseous. However, the experience should fade after a short period of time. Orgasm can also cause similar symptoms. Because an orgasm causes the muscles to tense, this can sometimes lead to abdominal pain or muscle pain. Additionally, during an orgasm, our bodies release the hormone serotonin – usually attributed to feel-good emotions – which can make us feel tired.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STD)
In the worst case, these symptoms may indicate a possible sexually transmitted infection (STD). Some symptoms of STDs include fever, swollen lymph nodes, joint pain, and fatigue as your body tries to fight the bacteria or virus. Sore throat and sore genitals can also be common symptoms of gonorrhea or chlamydia. Although STDs have similar symptoms to the flu, it doesn’t necessarily mean that what you’re experiencing is caused by a sexually transmitted infection. For this reason, if there is a possibility that you have contracted an STD, it never hurts to get tested.
It is better to get tested than not
An upset stomach, nasal congestion, or fatigue are all somewhat common symptoms that can be attributed to many possible conditions. It’s possible that your experiences are completely normal, but if these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s always best to contact a healthcare provider. If there are any concerns about your health, it is better to keep an eye on it than to leave it to the unknown.
In addition, if you are concerned that you or your partner may have a sexually transmitted disease, make sure you get tested as soon as possible. For help making an appointment for STD testing, Priority STD offers expert support to provide you with reliable and discreet testing services.