Sex is supposed to feel good.
After all, your bodyreleases a ton of feel-good hormones, like dopamine and oxytocin, during sexual activity.
There are a handful of reasons why you might feel tender after sex.
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It could be a simple explanation: Perhaps you werent lubricated enough when things got hot and heavy.
Is it normal to be sore after sex?
But just because its not normal to be sore after sex doesnt mean it doesnt happen.
All of these things have anti-inflammatory effects, which can reduce some of the soreness.
Dont apply ice directly to your vulva, she cautions.
Another tip: Give your vagina a break (meaning no penetration) until the soreness subsides.
You may just need to give it some time.
It shouldnt taketoolong for the pain to subside, and if it persists, call your doctor.
Why does my vagina hurt after sex?
Below, experts explain some of the most common reasons to feel sore after sex.
(Take notes, because this ones going to come up a few times.)
To get some relief ASAP, Dr. Abdur-Rahman recommends putting a little lube in your vaginaaftersex.
Just stay away from any lube with alcohol in it, which can make the burning worse.
Sometimes youre just nottotallyin the mood, and thats okay.
Oftentimes, this is due to a lack of foreplay.
No foreplay means no arousal means no natural lubrication, Dr. Minkin says.
How to prevent pain during and after sex:Foreplay, foreplay, foreplay!
Getting in the mood causes your vagina to expand and naturally lubricate itself.
Lubrication is always importantand it takes time, Dr. Minkin says.
According to Dr. Abdur-Rahman, this pain might even be reminiscent ofmenstrual cramps.
How to prevent pain during and after sex:Foreplay is once again key.
Once again,adding lubeas needed will also help.
If youre using a toy, use water-based lube only (silicone-based options could damage your toy).
And dont be afraid to take it slow.
This gives your body time to get used to the size of whatever is penetrating it.
From there, you should be thoughtful about your positioning.
Any position that puts the person with the vagina in control of penetration is a safe bet.
Think: you on top.
Friction can feel great, but too much can definitely make your vagina hurt after sex.
Again, you may just not be wet enough due to lack of natural lubrication or insufficient foreplay.
How to prevent pain during and after sex:Take whatever steps you could to ensure adequate lubrication.
Foreplay is a great way to give the vagina time to warm up, and lube helps too.
Its also important to take your timeat least at first.
Start gently and gradually transition into rougher, faster sex (assuming thats what youre into).
Some people areallergic (or sensitive) to latex.
But this key in of allergy is rare.
Very seldom is the issue a sensitivity to semen, Dr. Minkin stresses.
Ive seen that a few times in my career, but its unusual.
female condom) to prevent disease and pregnancy.
Typically, these infections trigger inflammation in the vagina that can cause pain and discomfort, Dr. Minkin says.
Some people may notice their vulva feels red and itchy too, Dr. Greves adds.
That said, there are a few good rules of thumb.
This kind of barrier protection can help protect you from STIs.
A second tip:Pee after sexto decrease your risk of getting a UTI.
These arent the only conditions that can make sex hurt.
Estrogen is a hormone that helps maintain your vaginas lubrication, elasticity, and thickness.
When yourestrogen levels are low, you might experience thinning, drying, and inflammation of your vaginal walls.
Over time,a dry vaginacan lead to microscopic cuts that may burn or itch.
It makes the vagina feel better and more moist, Dr. Minkin says.
These can all help restore your vaginas thickness and elasticity, ultimately making sex less painful.
Scar tissue may form when a wound or surgical incision heals.
Scar tissue can make your vagina less flexible or prevent it from expanding or shifting around easily during sex.
But if that doesnt do the trick, its really best to consult with your doctor.
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