The surprisingly common sex side effect that comes from being too turned on

‘I had to run to the toilet because I felt like I was going to vomit,’ wrote Reddit user lycheepychee. ‘I felt so nauseous.’

While it sounds like she’s describing a ride on the waltzers or a nasty bout of food poisoning, she’s actually referring to a recent sexual encounter, where passionate kissing led to severe queasiness and stomach tramps.

And she’s not alone in experiencing these strange symptoms when aroused.

A number of people responded to the post with similar stories, including kindolls who commented: ‘This feeling has happened to me for as long as I can remember. I literally have to stop and breathe if I’m too turned on.’

Countless others have shared their issues online too over the years. One, an otherwise healthy 32-year-old woman, sought insight over ‘rapid onset intense nausea during intercourse, foreplay, or while making out shortly before intercourse.’

Over the last four years, she’s struggled with throwing up (or feeling like she’s about to) at least 90% of the time when she’s intimate with her partner. Although he’s understanding, it’s – as you’d imagine – ‘very bothersome’ for their sex life.

Marie Morice, clinical sexologist and sex coach, tells Metro: ‘We usually don’t associate nausea and sex. Not a sexy combo. But here’s the thing – it’s another taboo rarely talked about and yet, it’s more common than we might think.’

According to Marie, there are a number of physical and mental factors which may lead to this ‘surprisingly frequent’ side effect.

‘On a physical level, digestive issues like acid reflux, eating a heavy meal, or even hormonal changes during menstruation or pregnancy can contribute,’ she explains.

‘Some people are also prone to vestibular sensitivity, where movements during certain (rocky) positions may trigger sensations similar to motion sickness.’

In rare cases, the queasy feeling could be due to stimulation of the vagus nerve, although this is usually during sex or after orgasm. Additionally, some people – particularly those with issues like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) – may find penetration puts pressure on their internal organs and causes discomfort.

When it comes to the psychological side, these symptoms often come from the autonomic nervous system, and may be caused by your body’s reaction to increased anxiety or a sudden surge of adrenaline.

‘This is especially common when someone feels pressured, insecure, or overwhelmed by the situation,’ Melanie Eichhorn, sexologist at Satisfyer, tells Metro.

‘Others may experience nausea as a response to dislike or aversion. Sometimes, this is literal – being unable to “stomach” your partner’s scent or presence – but it can also be linked to subconscious feelings of discomfort.’

Past sexual trauma also needs to be considered, as lightheadedness or the urge to vomit may be a manifestation of your fears around sex.

Marie says: ‘As a clinical sexologist, I’ve worked with clients for whom body image concerns or emotional disconnects in their relationships caused this discomfort. For instance, one client felt nauseous due to anxiety stemming from a prior negative sexual experience.

‘Even seemingly unrelated emotions, such as feelings of guilt or shame around sex, can create this physical response.’

Stranger still, many who get nauseous before, during or after sex with a partner have no such experience during masturbation.

‘Ultimately, the contrast lies in the degree of control and emotional safety,’ says Melanie. ‘Masturbation allows you to set the tone, pace, and boundaries without external influences, making it a space where both your body and mind can remain in harmony.’

Thankfully, it’s not something you have to live forever, and can be resolved. You will need to try to work out the root cause of your symptoms though.

Marie recommends looking at various clues: specific situations, positions, moments or timing of intimacy after eating when you’ve felt queasy. If there’s a common theme, it can point to a trigger like digestive issues, pressure on the stomach, or hormonal fluctuations.

‘It’s also worth examining whether the nausea is tied to the physical exertion of sex,’ adds Melanie. ‘Do you feel the same way during other physically demanding activities, like climbing stairs, running, or exercising? If so, this could indicate a physical cause, such as dehydration, low blood sugar, or even cardiovascular issues. Scheduling a health check-up with your doctor can help rule out or address underlying medical conditions.’

Otherwise, you’ll need to reflect on how you feel leading up to or during intimacy.

‘It’s important to follow your instinct and listen to your body and mind,’ advises Marie. ‘Do past negative experiences or relationship dynamics play a role? If you notice emotional triggers, it may be a sign that psychological or relational factors are contributing.’

Keep a journal so you can track any patterns, and seek support from a therapist or clinical sexologist to work through emotional or mental blocks.

Melanie says; ‘Remember that there’s no shame in experiencing these symptoms. Talking openly – whether with your partner, a trusted friend, or a healthcare professional – can not only provide emotional relief but also help you feel less isolated. 

‘Sex is meant to be a pleasurable and connecting experience, and it’s absolutely possible to work through these challenges to reclaim that joy.’

And if it’s awkward in the moment?

‘One of the best remedies is to have a good laugh about it and keep things light and fun,’ says Marie. ‘Humour can help diffuse tension, ease self-consciousness, and create a sense of connection with your partner.’

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Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.