Contractions after sex during pregnancy, are they normal?

Having contractions after sex during pregnancy, is it normal?

Contractions are your body's way of getting ready for the baby's birth. However, don't panic and rush to the hospital thinking it's time to give birth as soon as you feel the contractions after sex.

Post-sex contractions that center on the lower abdomen are a "side effect" of an orgasm that is generally normal. Tensioning of the muscles in the body usually occurs within a few seconds of orgasm, as it is caused by increased oxytocin production and large blood flow to the pelvic area. Orgasm in women is characterized in particular by tightening the muscles in the front third of the vaginal wall, as well as in the muscles of the uterus.

In addition, male semen contains prostaglandins which can also trigger uterine contractions to a lesser extent. Physical activity and changing positions during sex can also cause muscle contractions. After coming down from climax, the muscles of the body will relax again to their original state.

In pregnant women, contractions after sex can most likely signal false Braxton-Hicks contractions. Braxton-Hicks contractions are common during the third trimester, or even in the second trimester. Try lying down, relaxing, taking a warm bath, or drinking a glass of water until the symptoms subside. These false contractions generally do not trigger the opening of the uterus, let alone trigger premature labor.

Distinguish signs of Braxton Hicks contractions from labor contractions

You may experience Braxton-Hicks contractions if the contractions lasted a while; do not last long, do not get worse, and do not get more and more often with random patterns. For example the distance between contractions is 10 minutes, 4 minutes, 2 minutes, and then 6 minutes.

Uterine contractions are also called sham when they feel like mild stomach cramps and can improve within a few hours or stop immediately once you rest or switch to other activities. But keep in mind that not all pregnant women will experience false contractions.

On the other hand, uterine contractions can indeed trigger labor. The difference is, uterine contractions that really indicate labor is imminent will take place with a regular rhythm and get stronger over time, they can even occur without warning at all. Childbirth contractions also generally do not subside when you change positions, rest, or switch to other activities.

It's a good idea to contact your obstetrician or midwife immediately if you are in doubt whether the contractions are fake or real. Sometimes, the only way to know for sure is by having a vaginal exam. Your doctor or midwife can check if your cervix is loose and prepare for labor.

Be alert if the contractions are accompanied by other symptoms

Contractions after sex during pregnancy that feel light are generally a normal occurrence and should not be a cause for concern.

However, if the contractions are unbearably painful, and are accompanied by more disturbing symptoms such as dizziness, ruptured water, or heavy vaginal bleeding, this could be a danger signal. For example, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, premature birth, or preeclampsia.

Therefore, you should immediately consult your gynecologist if you suspect you are experiencing the symptoms above.