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Question
30 Nov 2004
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Headache during sex
While my husband and I were making love and as he was bringing me to orgasm manually, I suddenly developed a severe (almost migrane like) headache that also caused me to be nauseated. I have had this happen one other time but this time was more painful and lasted much longer. The headache lasted a couple of hours. It scared us both. I am perimenopausal. Could it have been hormone related? If so what can I do about this?
Sexologist
Coital headaches are not uncommon. They are more common in men than women. Although there is no specific information as to the cause, a current theory is that the vasodilation associated with sexual arousal that leads to engorgement of the genitals, nipples, and nasal mucosa, as well as the flushing of the chest and face, may become generalized and lead to dilation of the cerebral blood vessels, causing headache. Prevention of these headaches may be accomplished in some cases by taking an analgesic prior to sexual activity. Other preventatives may include caffeine and calcium (doses similar to those used for prevention of osteoporosis). If caffeine is used, it may retard or even prevent orgasm.
Interestingly, people who are prone to coital headaches are also more likely to develop headaches when using Viagra. This is consistent with the theory described above.
A website that has some information about this phenomenon: http://headaches.about.com/library/weekly/aa061901a.htm
Interestingly, people who are prone to coital headaches are also more likely to develop headaches when using Viagra. This is consistent with the theory described above.
A website that has some information about this phenomenon: http://headaches.about.com/library/weekly/aa061901a.htm
The information provided does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition. You should consult a medical practitioner or other appropriate health care professional for a physical examination, diagnosis and formal advice. Health24 and the expert accept no responsibility or liability for any damage or personal harm you may suffer resulting from making use of this content.
