Few would openly confess to experiencing something awkward when reaching orgasm, such as emitting an odd sound or even shedding tears.
However, a new study suggests that peculiar occurrences during sex, such as nosebleeds or hallucinations, might not be unusual after climaxing. For some individuals, these ‘peri-orgasmic phenomena’ could actually indicate that everything is functioning well.
Research conducted by gynecologists in the relatively overlooked area of the female orgasm has highlighted that bursts of laughter, uncontrollable tears, headaches, hallucinations, and nosebleeds can be typical side effects of an orgasm.
The recent study, featured in the Journal of Women’s Health, is believed to be the first to assess both the frequency of these phenomena and the prevalence of ‘peri-orgasmic phenomena’ in women.
The study’s lead researcher, Professor Lauren Streicher from Northwestern University, remarked: “While there have been case reports of women laughing, crying or having unusual physical symptoms during orgasm, this is the first study to characterize what these phenomena are and when they are most likely to occur.”
Utilizing social media, Streicher and Professor James Simon of George Washington University gathered input from women on a topic that might be too embarrassing to discuss face-to-face.
Of the 3,800 women surveyed, 86 shared their experiences of these peri-orgasmic phenomena, leading the researchers to conclude that these side effects might be more common than previously assumed.
Sixty-one percent reported experiencing physical symptoms during climax, while 88 percent noted a strong emotional reaction.
Over half (52 percent) encountered multiple symptoms, and about one in five (21 percent) experienced both physical and emotional responses to orgasm.
The lead researcher emphasized the significance of documenting these symptoms to help normalize the varied spectrum of female sexual experiences.
Professor Streicher stated: “Women need to know that if they have uncontrollable peals of laughter every time they orgasm (and nothing was funny), they are not alone.”
Although the survey revealed a wide range of symptoms experienced by women, only 17 out of the 86 respondents consistently encountered these orgasmic side effects.
The study also indicated that women were more likely to experience these phenomena during sex, with only 23 percent reporting them during masturbation or with a vibrator.
Despite the insights provided by this smaller-scale study, more extensive research is necessary to determine the prevalence of these symptoms. Only 2.3 percent of those who watched the video calling for responses on unusual climax symptoms completed the survey, indicating a physical or emotional reaction.
“Normal and common are not the same thing,” Professor Streicher clarified to BBC Science Focus. “Also, this survey does not reveal the true prevalence of these symptoms. Many people who viewed the [social media post] with symptoms may have chosen not to respond.”