What might cause a stomach ache after sex?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Stomach aches after sex are a common concern and can stem from several causes. Physical factors include deep penetration, muscle strain, pelvic floor tension, or trapped gas. Underlying conditions such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or urinary tract infections may also trigger post-sex abdominal pain. In some cases, emotional stress or orgasm-related uterine contractions can play a role.

Because the causes range from harmless to conditions that need medical attention, identifying what's behind your symptoms matters. Pinpointing the source early helps you decide whether at-home care is enough or whether it's time to see a doctor—saving you time, worry, and potentially preventing complications. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be causing your discomfort and get personalized guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Stomach aches after sex can happen for different reasons. One possible cause is a physical injury during sexual activity, which can lead to abdominal pain. This is more common in younger individuals, as noted in a study of a 13-year-old who experienced abdominal pain after coital injury.

Another factor could be pain experienced during sexual activity, which can occur before or after certain medical procedures, such as laparoscopic surgery. This suggests that past surgeries or medical conditions might contribute to discomfort during or after sex.

Lastly, the experience of pleasure and pain can sometimes overlap, especially if an orgasm is almost reached but not fully achieved. This can create a mix of sensations that might include discomfort or pain.

Understanding these causes can help in identifying why someone may feel a stomach ache after sex, and it is important to consider any recent medical history or physical experiences that might contribute to this discomfort. If you're experiencing persistent abdominal pain or discomfort, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be causing your pain and determine if you should seek medical attention.

(References)

Tolver MA, & Rosenberg J. (2015). Pain during sexual activity before and after laparoscopic .... Surgical endoscopy, 25783834.
Bhagat M. (1996). Coital injury presenting in a 13 year old as abdominal pain .... Pediatric emergency care, 8897544.
Paterson LQ, Amsel R, & Binik YM. (2013). Pleasure and pain: the effect of (almost) having an orgasm .... The journal of sexual medicine, 23551826.

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