Cramps after sex: Possible causes in men and women

Both men and women can experience cramps after sex. The medical term for pain before, during, or after sex is dyspareunia.
Cramps may occur after sex for many reasons, ranging from mild muscle strain to underlying conditions that may require treatment.
Read on for more information about the potential causes of cramping or pain after sex.

Causes of cramps in both sexes
There are many potential causes of cramps after sex in both men and women.
Muscle strains
Similar to during exercise, straining the pelvic and abdominal muscles during sex can sometimes lead to cramping.
Tight muscles, dehydration, or working the muscle in an awkward position can all cause cramps. These cramps usually dissipate after a few seconds to minutes.
Orgasm
An orgasm can also cause cramps. An orgasm involves the involuntary contraction of the muscles in the pelvis and pelvic floor.
If these muscles continue to contract intensely, they may cause temporary cramps after sex.
Bowel issues
Issues with the digestive system can cause abdominal cramping. Constipation and gas are two common causes of stomach pain after sex.
Other bowel problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome
, can also cause cramping.
Urinary problems

Likewise, problems with the bladder or urinary system can also cause pain after sex. The bladder sits right in front of the uterus, and intercourse can sometimes irritate it.
This is particularly true if someone has a urinary tract infection or a condition called interstitial cystitis, which causes pain and pressure in the pelvis and urinary system.
Sexually transmitted infections
Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly chlamydia and gonorrhea, can cause abdominal cramping, including after intercourse.
Many STIs do not cause any symptoms, so it is best to get tested regularly. Some STIs can also cause discharge from the penis or vagina, as well as pain during urination.
Emotional trauma
Sometimes, past trauma or an emotional issue surrounding sex can manifest as physical discomfort or pain during or after intercourse.
Even everyday stressors and anxiety
can build up and cause muscle tension or cramping.
Deep penetration
Deep penetration, especially against the cervix, can cause irritation and cramping. Injury or infection of the cervix can make it more susceptible to cramping or pain.
Ovarian cysts
The ovaries are two small organs located on either side of the uterus. Sometimes, a cyst grows on or in the ovary.
While these cysts are not usually dangerous, they can cause pain or discomfort after sex.
Ovulation
Each month, one of the ovaries grows a follicle that contains a maturing egg. About 2 weeks before a woman’s period, that follicle ruptures, releasing the egg for potential fertilization and conception.
Having sex around this time can cause abdominal cramping in some people.
Fibroids
Fibroids are growths that occur in the wall of the uterus. They are usually benign, or noncancerous.