Tired after sex? Find out why it happens and how to overcome it

Sex can be one of the most demanding things you can do while in bed! Many couples end up having sex after a long day at work or at the end of a long week. There is no doubt that it is an activity that can relax the mind and body, but sex can also be tiring for some people. While some couples enjoy post-sex cuddles and love like hugs and kisses, some may just want to fall asleep! It can happen with one or both partners participating in the act. What you need to know is normal, as sexual activity involves the contraction of various muscle groups, which leads to physical fatigue. There are many reasons why people feel tired after sex, and sometimes it can be due to an underlying health problem.

Why do women get tired after sex?

Whether or not women have an orgasm, they are more likely than men to feel tired and fall asleep after sex, according to research published in Evolutionary Behavioral Sciences in 2020. “Lack of energy after sex is quite normal,” says psychiatrist Dr. Ashish Bansal. You may feel tired after sex for the following reasons:

1. Hormonal factors

The hormone oxytocin increases as a result of intercourse, according to the American Psychological Association. “Oxytocin and prolactin are two hormones released during intercourse that are responsible for promoting relaxation and sleepiness,” says Dr. Bansal. Fluctuations in estrogen and testosterone can also affect energy levels.

2. Physical strain

Sexual activity can be considered exercise, as a sex session lasting an average of 25 minutes, including foreplay, burned an average of 69 calories in women, according to a 2013 study published in Plus One. So, if you engage in a rigorous or prolonged sexual activity, it can leave you as lean as after a workout.

3. Stress relief

There are people who use sexual activities as a way to relax and unwind. “The body’s muscles may lose tension and you may be relieved of stress after sex,” says the expert.

4. Lack of sleep

If you haven’t had enough sleep, any other physical activity, including sex, will make you feel more exhausted. You can blame poor quality or lack of sleep for feeling tired after sex.

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5. Low blood sugar

Sex involves effort and thus, can cause dehydration and low blood sugar, especially if you haven’t had water or food for hours before sex. This can lead to fatigue or even dizziness after sex.

6. Underlying health conditions

“Anemia and thyroid disorders can affect energy levels and contribute to fatigue after sex,” says Dr. Bansal. In the case of anemia, it prevents the body from getting enough oxygen-rich blood, making the person feel tired. Regarding thyroid disorder, an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause fatigue.

When to worry?

Although feeling tired after sex is normal, some signs may indicate a more serious problem:

• If you feel extreme fatigue that lasts for hours or even days after sex, it may indicate an underlying condition such as anemia or thyroid dysfunction.
• If the fatigue is accompanied by pelvic pain, back pain or headaches, or other symptoms such as nausea, dizziness or shortness of breath, it may be worth talking to a doctor.
• A sudden change in sex drive or sexual response, combined with fatigue, can indicate hormonal imbalances or mental health problems such as depression or anxiety.

What are the ways to overcome exhaustion after sex?

Here are ways to overcome post-sex exhaustion:

1. Hydration

Sex is like exercise, so you will sweat and get tired. Your body loses fluids during sex, so drinking water before and after sexual activity will replenish lost fluids and energy. “Drinking water also helps blood flow which can help relieve dizziness or fatigue,” says the expert.

2. Eat a balanced diet

The type of foods you eat is linked to your energy levels. Getting protein, fat, and carbs will help boost energy after sex. Eat small meals that contain carbohydrates and protein before sex to ensure you don’t feel sleepy or tired after sex.

3. Get enough sleep

You may need seven or nine hours of good quality sleep each night. Good quality sleep can allow your body to recover well from physical activities, including sex. If your body is well rested, you won’t feel drained after sex.

4. Take turns during sex

Sexual activities can be tiring, so you shouldn’t stress too much. Follow your body’s signals and avoid overexertion to avoid exhaustion after sex. “Resting, changing positions or even slowing down can help control energy consumption,” says the expert.

5. Go for relaxation techniques

Deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching can be used to calm your body and mind after sex. Relaxation techniques can help release tension and can help change your body’s physical state from arousal to relaxation.

6. Contact your partner

Communicating openly with your partner about your energy levels and preferences can help ensure that sex is enjoyable and not overly exhausting. “Discussing pace and duration in addition to comfort levels can prevent overexertion after sex,” says Dr. Bansal.

7. Focus on foreplay

Spending more time on foreplay rather than jumping straight into intercourse can help you build intimacy by allowing your body to gradually warm up. This approach can prevent sudden spikes in physical exertion, making the overall experience less tiring.

8. Take medication

If you feel tired after sex due to anemia or thyroid disorders, take medication for these conditions. But have them only after checking with your doctor. Also, if you are taking medications that may contribute to fatigue, discuss their potential side effects with your doctor.

Feeling tired after sex is usually a natural reaction of the body. You should stay hydrated and discuss the duration and pace with your partner to avoid fatigue after sex. But if the fatigue is excessive or unusual, consult your doctor.