Whether you’re feeling bloated, gassy or have an intense headache after sex, it may be caused by a variety of reasons. It could be the accidental swallowing of lubrication; an allergic reaction to something you ate or drank before or during intercourse; or it could simply be the results of a climax.
Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter and hormone that helps send signals between brain cells. It also plays a role in motivation and reward. It can be found naturally in your body but it also comes from drugs like cocaine and heroin. When you use drugs, it causes a surge of dopamine in your brain. This gives you the feeling of pleasure and rewards, but it can also cause chemical dependence.
When you feel high after sex, it’s likely due to the release of dopamine in your brain’s reward center. The release of this chemical makes you want to repeat the behavior that caused it, like sexual activity. This is why some people become addicted to sex.
During orgasm, the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in your brain releases dopamine. This area communicates with other parts of the brain to assess how well your human needs are being met. This may explain why you sometimes lose control during orgasms, as this can be a result of the VTA shutting off your decision-making process.
To increase your levels of dopamine, try eating foods that are rich in protein and tyrosine, an amino acid. Some good sources include chicken, beef, eggs, dairy products, bananas, beans, chocolate, green leafy vegetables and avocados. It’s also a good idea to exercise and practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga and massage.
Oxytocin
Oxytocin, also known as the cuddle hormone or the love hormone, is a natural substance that is produced in your hypothalamus and secreted by the posterior pituitary gland, a pea-sized structure at the base of your brain. This chemical messenger is responsible for key aspects of the female and male reproductive system, as well as many aspects of human behavior.
The hormone is produced and released when you engage in activities such as kissing, snuggling, hugging and sexual activity. It is also responsible for a variety of emotional responses, such as empathy and trust. It is also responsible for arousal, orgasm and the release of semen from the prostate in men. Oxytocin also plays a role in social bonding, such as maternal instincts and father-child attachment.
It is a part of the “cuddle chemical” family, which are compounds that induce feelings of bonding and closeness. These compounds are able to do this by binding to specialized receptors on your cells.
Studies show that oxytocin is involved in nearly every aspect of sex, from foreplay to orgasm. It is also important for sex maintenance, as it helps you to keep in touch with your partner. In fact, couples who regularly experience sex together report higher levels of happiness and satisfaction in their relationship than those who do not.
Endorphins
Endorphins are polypeptides (hormone-like chemicals) your body releases to block pain, reduce stress and improve mood. They are produced by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, and interact mainly with opioid receptors in the brain and nervous system. They are responsible for the feeling of euphoria you may experience after intense physical activity, such as a long run or weight training, or in response to pleasurable activities like dancing and eating. They also play a role in sex, creating the feeling of contentment and well-being after an orgasm.
Sex is an excellent way to naturally increase your endorphin levels, as it is a form of physical intimacy and pleasure that promotes social interaction and feelings of happiness and satisfaction with life. It is not surprising, therefore, that sex is sometimes referred to as your own personal narcotic.
You can boost your endorphin levels by exercising, participating in a group activity that makes you laugh or smile (like playing sports with friends, having a dance party, or laughing at a funny movie), taking up a new hobby, or spending time with loved ones. Practicing mindfulness, doing random acts of kindness, and expressing gratitude are also good ways to increase your feel-good hormones. Just remember that if your endorphin levels are too low, you may feel sad, anxious or depressed.
Stress Relief
Stress is a common part of modern life, whether it comes from work, family, or health issues. But constant, high levels of stress can cause problems like anxiety, insomnia, low libido, and heart disease. That’s why it is important to find ways to relieve stress. Some of these techniques include yoga, meditation, and journaling. But one of the best tools is sex. Studies show that sexual activity lowers cortisol, the stress hormone. It also raises the release of hormones that boost your mood and help you relax.
Even masturbation can have a stress-relieving effect. Orgasms release a chemical called endorphins that interact with the opiate receptors in your brain to reduce pain. It is these chemicals that may cause you to feel nauseous after orgasms.
It is also possible that your stomach is feeling gassy because you are exhausted from sex. Or it could be that you ate something before or during intercourse that is causing the problem. But most likely, your stomach is feeling nauseous because of the release of hormones that make you relaxed.
The key to preventing orgasm nausea is to drink plenty of water and avoid foods that will make you gassy. If you are still having problems, consider seeing a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment. Nicole is a women’s health journalist who lives in Chicago and contributes to Sixty Inches from Center, HelloGiggles, and GO Magazine.
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