Sex Headaches – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Headaches triggered by sexual activity, particularly during orgasm, can occur in rare cases.
These may present as a gradual dull ache in the head and neck that intensifies with sexual excitement, or more frequently, as a sudden intense headache right before or during climax.
While most sex-related headaches are benign and not cause for alarm, some instances might indicate serious underlying issues with cerebral blood vessels.
These symptoms deserve attention, especially if they’re severe or recurring, though they don’t typically signal a major health problem in most cases.
Symptoms
Strong Headache During Climax
A sudden, intense headache that strikes right before or during orgasm is one type of sexual headache. This pain often feels throbbing and severe.
It comes on without warning at the moment of sexual climax. This type may feel alarming due to its quick onset and intensity.
Gradual Headache During Sexual Activity
Some people experience a dull headache that begins during sexual arousal. This pain typically starts mild and gets worse as sexual excitement increases.
The ache builds slowly rather than appearing suddenly. Some individuals may have both types of headaches during the same sexual encounter.
Where It Hurts and How It Feels
Sexual headaches typically affect the whole head rather than just one side. The pain may extend to the neck area.
The sensation ranges from a dull ache to a severe throbbing pain, depending on the type. Most people describe the pain as different from their regular headaches.
Other Possible Symptoms
While less common, additional symptoms that might occur with sexual headaches include:
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Dizziness
- Neck stiffness
These headaches typically last from several minutes to hours, though some may continue for 2-3 days. Many people experience these headaches in clusters for a few months before they disappear for a year or longer.
When to See a Medical Professional
Sex headaches are usually not dangerous, but you should talk to your doctor right away if you get a headache during sexual activity, especially if:
- The headache comes on suddenly and severely
- This is your first time experiencing this type of headache
- You also have confusion, throwing up, or changes in your vision
These symptoms might point to something serious like a brain aneurysm or bleeding in the brain.
Warning signs that suggest a more serious underlying cause include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Neurological symptoms
- Severe pain lasting more than 24 hours
If you have any of these warning signs, get emergency medical help immediately.
Causes
Sex headaches can happen during any sexual activity that leads to orgasm. These headaches fall into two main types: those that come on suddenly and those that build slowly over time.
Some sex headaches occur on their own without any underlying health problems. However, sudden-onset sex headaches might be linked to more serious conditions.
Possible causes of sudden sex headaches include:
- Aneurysm (a bulge in a brain artery wall)
- Arteriovenous malformation (abnormal connection between blood vessels)
- Arterial dissection (tearing in an artery wall)
- Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Medication side effects, including birth control pills
- Certain infections causing inflammation
Risk Factors
People who may get sex headaches include:
- Men: They have a higher chance of getting these headaches.
- People with Migraines: If you regularly get migraines, you might be more likely to experience headaches during sexual activity.
Both factors can increase your chances of developing this type of headache, though anyone can be affected.
Preventing Sex Headaches
You can often avoid sex headaches by:
- Stopping sexual activity before reaching orgasm
- Taking a more passive role during intimate moments
These changes may reduce your risk of developing headaches during sexual activity.
