Do You Get Migraines? Have More SEX!

do you get migraines? have more sex
Submitted and Medically Reviewed By: Richard Honaker M.D.

Research suggests that sex could relieve head-splitting pain from migraines. That’s right! If you are prone to migraines, you should maybe increase your time between the sheets.

Quick Overview:

  • Research suggests sex relieves migraines
  • Sex releases endorphins during orgasm
  • Endorphins are natural painkillers
  • Endorphins are similar to Morphine
  • Sex can also make migraines worse

Study Finds Sex to Cure Migraines

A study published in Cephalalgia (2013) found that sex can serve up a lot of relief is not cure migraines. In fact, 60 percent of the 800 participants said they felt some kind of migraine relief after sex.

The authors of the study explained, “The majority of patients with migraine or cluster headache do not have sexual activity during headache attacks. Our data suggest, however, that sexual activity can lead to partial or complete relief of headache in some migraine and a few cluster headache patients.”

How does Sex Cure Migraines?

Well, though the study found a connection between migraine relief and sex, the actions behind the “cure” are somewhat hazy. Researchers believe that the hormones released during sex act as natural painkillers. And these natural painkillers act faster than prescribed ones.

During your orgasm, your body release endorphins. These endorphins are the natural painkillers that very well play a role in the sex and migraines connection.

In fact, endorphins have a morphine type affect on your body and brain. It can act as a numbing effect, settling the nervous system. This happens by decreasing or stopping substance P (pain transmission protein). It can also release more dopamine to settle migraines as well.

Just for You . . .

I Tried Your Doctors Online and Found Out I was Pregnant!

Vagina Questions You’re Too Embarrassed to Ask Your Doctor

6 Ways Sex Can Make Your 2018 Super Healthy

Do I Have Crabs?

Sex Can Potentially Make Headaches Worse Too

So the research behind sex curing migraines isn’t a final decision. Sex can sometimes worsen headaches, making it not a go-to remedy when migraines hit you like a hammer.

The study found that 33 percent of migraine participants experienced worse pain after sex. It is a 66/33 split on whether it will work. The worsening of migraines could be explained by the physical activity sex requires. It can strain your body, and your orgasm could even cause further strain, making headaches worse after sex.

Should You Have Sex to Relieve Migraines?

It is hard to say. The most important thing you can do is talk to a doctor about your migraines, especially if you have them often. There could be a more serious health issue afoot.

While talking to a doctor, you can bring up the study that found sex to be a remedy for migraines, and they can help hash out the details. Remember, safe sex is best!

If you have questions about migraines, sex, or any other health issue, our doctors are available 24/7. You can talk to a doctor via our free Dr. Chat and get general medical questions answered quickly.

Talk to Our Online Doctors and Get Treated for Migraine

FAQs

Can migraine be linked to sex?

Some people, especially men with a history of migraines, are susceptible to having their migraines brought on by sexual activity. Coital cephalalgia, commonly known as the headache brought on by sexual activity, can range in strength and duration and come with other symptoms like nausea or light sensitivity. Medication to prevent migraines and counselling from addressing any psychological issues that may be causing the headache are both possible treatments for coital cephalalgia.

Why is sex the best cure for a headache?

There is no scientific proof that sex is the best headache treatment, but it may be true. In fact, for some people, especially those predisposed to these disorders, engaging in sexual activity might set off migraines or headaches. While some people may claim that having sex relieves their headaches, this is probably due to the release of endorphins and the relaxation that might result from the physical and emotional components of sex. There are, however, numerous additional efficient headache remedies, such as over-the-counter and prescription drugs, relaxation methods, and dietary adjustments.

What age do migraines peak?

Although migraines can strike at any age, their frequency is highest in those between 15 and 49. Women are more likely than males to get migraines, and their frequency and intensity can change throughout a person’s lifetime. Some people may experience less frequent or severe migraines as they age, especially in women following menopause. This isn’t always the case; some people may live the rest of their life with migraines.

How long do sex migraines last?

Sex headaches, or orgasm headaches, can vary in duration and intensity. They usually last a few minutes to a few hours, but some people may experience them for several days. The time and intensity of a headache might change from one episode to the next and from person to person. To rule out any underlying illnesses that may need treatment, it is crucial to seek medical assistance if you feel severe, abrupt, or persistent headaches when engaging in sexual activity.

Can sex hormones cause migraines?

Yes, some people—especially women—can develop migraines due to their sex hormones. Changes in estrogen levels, such as those during the menstrual cycle or menopause, can make migraines more likely. Some women may only get migraines at specific times of the menstrual cycle. Some women may experience migraines due to hormonal drugs influencing their estrogen levels, such as birth control pills or hormone replacement treatment.

Why am I getting a migraine during sex?

Coital cephalalgia, often known as migraines during or after sex, can be brought on by various things. Migraines during sex can be caused by physical strain, variations in blood flow, hormonal changes, and psychological issues.

Get started today

Talk to online doctors now and get medical advice, online prescriptions, and referrals within minutes. On-demand healthcare services at your fingertips.

talk to online doctor 24/7 free

See a doctor now

Continue in Browser