What causes nausea after sex?

April 05, 2025
Posted by Cornelia Grabmeier

April 5, 2025

Nausea after sex can be a distressing symptom that affects many people, but is rarely openly discussed. Nausea after intercourse can be caused by hormonal changes, physical exertion, or psychological factors such as stress. Overstimulation of the nervous system or medical causes such as infections or early pregnancy are also possible reasons. A medical examination is recommended to clarify the cause.

This article explains the most common causes of nausea after sex and helps readers understand how it arises. It also explores whether pregnancy, emotional issues, illness, or a sexually transmitted infection may be the cause and how nausea can be alleviated.

Why do I feel nauseous after sex?
Which organ is responsible for nausea?
Is nausea after sex a sign of pregnancy?
Can emotional issues cause nausea during or after sex?
Could an illness be the cause of nausea after sex?
Is nausea after sex related to STIs?
How can nausea after sex be relieved?
Summary

Why do I feel nauseous after sex?

Nausea after sex can have various causes:

Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations can affect the digestive system and contribute to nausea after intercourse.
Physical exertion: Intense physical activity during sex can affect circulation, balance, blood pressure, and digestion, which may trigger nausea.
Overstimulation of the vagus nerve: The vagus nerve runs from the brain through the neck to the abdomen and influences many bodily functions, including circulation. Overstimulating this nerve can disrupt circulation and cause nausea.
Dehydration: Lack of fluids stresses the body and digestive system, which can worsen nausea.
Irritation or pain: Pressure on the gastrointestinal tract or friction during sex can cause discomfort and lead to nausea.

Additionally, pregnancy, emotional factors (e.g., stress), and illnesses – which will be discussed later in the article – can also trigger nausea after sex.

Sources: Cleveland Clinic, 2023; Mayo Clinic, 2024; MSD Manuals, 2023; Bay County, n.d.; Cleveland Clinic, 2021.

Which organ is responsible for nausea?

The brain, specifically the vomiting center, controls nausea and vomiting by processing signals from various organs. The vomiting center is connected to different body systems and organs. For example, the gastrointestinal tract provides information about digestion, while the vestibular system in the inner ear regulates balance. Chemical changes in the blood, such as from medications or toxins, can also send signals to the vomiting center. If the brain interprets these signals as threatening, it triggers nausea to eliminate potentially harmful substances through vomiting.
Sources: Gotfried, L., 2024; MacDougall, L. 2023

Is nausea after sex a sign of pregnancy?

Nausea after sex is not a clear sign of pregnancy. Pregnancy-related nausea usually occurs a few weeks after conception, and it is unlikely to appear immediately after intercourse. A pregnancy test or a visit to a doctor can provide clarity.
Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2023

Early signs of pregnancy include:

Missed period
Nausea (especially in the morning)
Tender breasts
Frequent urination
Fatigue
Sensitivity to taste and smell
Source: Mayo Clinic, 2024.

Can emotional issues cause nausea during or after sex?

Yes, emotional issues such as anxiety, stress, or shame can be the cause of nausea during or after sex, often due to hormonal changes. These reactions are often triggered by psychological stress, performance anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues and can affect physical well-being. Relaxation techniques or professional support may be helpful.
Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2022

Could an illness be the cause of nausea after sex?

In some cases, nausea after sex may indicate an underlying medical condition. It is important to note that nausea is not exclusively related to sex but is a general symptom of many health conditions.

Endometriosis: Tissue growing outside the uterus can put pressure on surrounding organs and cause pain and nausea during or after sex.
Vaginal infections: Infections such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections cause inflammation, which can lead to discomfort and possibly nausea after sex.
Pelvic inflammatory disease: This condition can make the reproductive organs sensitive, so pressure during sex triggers pain and nausea.
Gastrointestinal diseases: Conditions like gastritis may be worsened by abdominal pressure during sex, causing nausea.

Sources: Mayo Clinic, 2024; MSD Manuals, 2023; Bay County, n.d.; Cleveland Clinic, 2021.

Would you like to test your sexual health quickly and anonymously from home?

To detect sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea early – which often show no symptoms – regular testing is recommended. The Homed-IQ at-home test for chlamydia and gonorrhea enables a simple and discreet examination from home and provides quick results to check your sexual health. In addition, the complete STI test includes screening for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, HIV, and syphilis. Women should also consider an HPV test for high-risk HPV types that can cause cervical cancer.

Is nausea after sex related to STIs?

Nausea after sex may be indirectly related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but it is not a typical symptom. STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which, if left untreated, may lead to pain and discomfort. Other causes may include hormonal fluctuations, psychological factors, or other health conditions. If symptoms persist, STI testing is recommended.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, 2024; MSD Manuals, 2023

How can nausea after sex be relieved?

Nausea after sex may be relieved through the following measures:

Deep breathing and rest: Calm, deep breathing can help stabilize circulation and restore balance.
Drink small sips of water: Drinking water in small amounts soothes the stomach and prevents dehydration.
Drink ginger or peppermint tea: These natural remedies calm the stomach and relieve nausea.
Eat a light meal: A light meal stabilizes blood sugar levels and may help reduce nausea.
Reduce stress (relaxation techniques): Techniques like meditation or breathing exercises can reduce mental stress that may trigger nausea.
Open communication: Talking openly with your partner can help prevent misunderstandings and tension that may worsen the symptoms.

Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2023

If nausea persists or worsens, it is important to see a doctor to clarify the cause.

Summary

Nausea after sex can be caused by various factors, including hormonal changes, physical exertion, overstimulation of the vagus nerve, dehydration, irritation or pain, as well as emotional or psychological stress. Conditions such as endometriosis, vaginal infections, or gastrointestinal diseases may also play a role. Although nausea after sex is not a typical symptom of STIs, untreated infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammation, which may cause discomfort. Measures such as rest, small sips of water, ginger or peppermint tea, and stress reduction can help relieve symptoms. If symptoms persist, a medical examination is recommended to clarify potential causes.

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About the author

Cornelia Grabmeier

Cornelia studied biology with a focus on neurobiology at the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich. She currently lives in the Netherlands and is studying Management and Entrepreneurship in Health and Life Sciences at the Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam. She is active in sports and health, enjoys traveling and has a passion for making science accessible to a wide audience and inspiring them by communicating fascinating topics.