What causes abdominal bloating and pain after intercourse?
Generally speaking, "having sex" refers to sexual intercourse, and "abdomen" refers to the abdominal area. Abdominal bloating and pain after sexual intercourse may be related to factors such as overly vigorous movements, prolonged duration of intercourse, increased intestinal gas, pelvic inflammatory disease, or prostatitis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Overly Vigorous Movements
During sexual intercourse, if movements are too intense or forceful, a woman's pelvic organs may experience strong stimulation and compression, potentially causing muscle tension and pain in the abdominal area. Gentle abdominal massage for 15–20 minutes, along with deep breathing to relax the body, can help relieve muscle tension.
2. Prolonged Duration of Sexual Intercourse
Extended periods of sexual activity may cause persistent dilation of blood vessels in the female pelvis, leading to prolonged congestion of pelvic tissues and resulting in post-intercourse abdominal bloating and pain. It is advisable to reduce the duration and adopt semi-reclining or side-lying positions to alleviate pressure on the abdomen.
3. Increased Intestinal Gas
During sexual intercourse, abdominal movements may stimulate the intestines, causing gas within the intestines to shift and lead to a sensation of bloating and pain afterward. Abdominal massage—using the palm to gently rub the abdomen in a clockwise direction centered around the navel—can promote intestinal motility and assist in gas expulsion.
4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
Poor personal hygiene during menstruation or using unclean sanitary pads may easily lead to pelvic inflammatory disease in women. Sexual intercourse might exacerbate the inflammatory response, causing the aforementioned symptoms, often accompanied by fever and increased vaginal discharge. Treatment should follow medical guidance using medications such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection, azithromycin dispersible tablets, or metronidazole tablets.
5. Prostatitis
Men who sit for long periods may experience prostate compression, which can predispose them to prostatitis. Sexual activity may worsen the inflammation, leading to abdominal bloating and pain after intercourse, typically accompanied by symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination. Patients may take medications such as levofloxacin tablets, cefuroxime axetil granules, or tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release capsules under medical supervision.
In daily life, adequate rest is important. Lying flat on the bed and relaxing the body can allow abdominal muscles to fully recover.