Crying, laughing, or feeling pain after sex... it might not be a bodily glitch but rather "diversity."

1. "Crying even though it feels good" and "Can't stop laughing" — The more difficult the reaction is to express, the more anxious it becomes

Orgasms are often described as the "peak of pleasure," but in reality, they are more varied. Right after the peak, you might inexplicably burst into tears, can't stop laughing, or experience a throbbing headache... These are reactions that make those experiencing them wonder, "Is it just me?" or "Is this strange?"

A recent study reported by The Independent emphasizes that such reactions, while rare, can fall within the range of normal sexual responses. The research team refers to these as peri-orgasmic phenomena, categorizing them as diverse mental and physical reactions that can occur around the orgasm, distinct from the "standard response" of the orgasm itself. The Independent

2. How was the research conducted? — A "modern entry" from SNS videos to anonymous surveys

The entry point for this research was not an academic conference or hospital, but SNS. Gynecologist Lauren Streicher posted short videos explaining phenomena like laughter, tears, sneezing, and headaches, inviting viewers to answer an anonymous 6-question survey. The Independent

The results are as follows.

• Women who watched the video:3,800

• Those who self-reported experiencing peri-orgasmic phenomena and responded to the survey:86 (aged 18 and over)

• Percentage of the total:About 2.3% (based on self-reporting) The Independent

It is important to note that this is a convenience sample via SNS and does not indicate the precise prevalence in the general population (the research team also notes this limitation). However, the significance lies in providing a "map" of "frequency," "occurrence," and "situational differences" to an area previously centered on case reports. SAGE Journals

3. What reactions are common? — Tears are the most common, followed by headaches. Nosebleeds and hallucinations are "not zero"

Among the 86 respondents, 61% reported physical symptoms and 88% reported emotional reactions. Furthermore, 52% experienced two or more symptoms, and 21% experienced both physical and emotional reactions. The Independent

Main "physical" peri-orgasmic phenomena (percentage)

• Headaches:About 1/3

• Muscle weakness:About 1/4

• Leg pain/numbness:About 1/5

• Nosebleeds:2% The Independent

Main "emotional" peri-orgasmic phenomena (percentage)

• Crying:63%

• Laughing:Over 40%

• Hallucinations:4% The Independent

While words like "nosebleeds" and "hallucinations" catch the eye, the core message researchers want to convey is that **"unexpected reactions do not immediately imply abnormality."** The Independent

4. When are they more likely to occur? — More common during "sexual intercourse with a partner" than masturbation

Another intriguing aspect is the difference in "situations" where they occur.

Peri-orgasmic phenomena occurred exclusively during sexual intercourse with a partner for 51%. Meanwhile, only during masturbation for 9%, and only when using a vibrator for 14%. The Independent

Moreover, the occurrence is not fixed.

• Always occurs: 17%

• Occurs occasionally: 69% The Independent

This suggests that for many people, peri-orgasmic phenomena are not "set every time" but are likely influenced by factors such as physical condition, stress, relationships, and the psychological state at the time.

5. What are the causes? — While it cannot be definitively determined, "bodily reactions + emotional processing + relationships" are intertwined

At present, it is not possible to definitively determine a single cause. The article introduces hypotheses such as the release of oxytocin during orgasm and the possibility of emotions linked to past painful experiences being drawn out. The Independent

Additionally, a 2017 literature review organizes a wide range of reports on peri-orgasmic phenomena such as cataplexy-like weakness, crying, pain, panic, sneezing, and seizures. PubMed

Considering this breadth, it seems more natural to view orgasm not as a pelvic event but as a **"whole-body event" involving autonomic nerves, muscle tension, breathing, circulation, and emotional processing simultaneously.**

6. Reactions on SNS: Some find solace in empathy, while others experience increased anxiety

This research is symbolic in that SNS serves as both a "place of discovery" and a "place of discussion." In fact, reactions on SNS and forums are widely varied.

① Empathy and reassurance: "I experience it too" and "I wasn't strange"

On multiple Reddit threads, many shared experiences like "tearing up after a strong orgasm" and "it happened more when I was stressed," with voices accepting it as **"an emotional release."** Reddit

"Sometimes people have an emotional release after an orgasm, it’s normal." Reddit

② Labeling helps: "Search with PCD" or "peri-orgasmic phenomena"

Another trend is providing search terms like "It might be PCD (post-coital dysphoria)" or "There is a concept of peri-orgasmic phenomena," supporting by giving search terms. SNS is strong in providing reassurance with a name rather than unknown anxiety. Reddit

③ Discussions that fuel anxiety: "Aren't you forcing it?" "Aren't you adjusting to the partner?"

Conversely, there are voices questioning if "tears are a result of discrepancies in consent or communication" or if "there's pressure to perform." While these include assumptions, they also reflect a strong value on SNS that **"dialogue is necessary, especially in sexual situations."** Reddit

④ Reactions on Instagram: A mix of "interesting/scary/want to share"

On Instagram posts, while introducing key points of the research (tears, laughter, headaches, numbness, etc.), there is a structure where reactions like "I experience it too" and "I learned about it for the first time" are easily gathered. While the spread is high, the context tends to be shorter, which is also the fate of SNS. Instagram

7. Is it okay to leave it alone? Should you see a doctor? — Have "reassurance" and "boundaries"

Researchers state that it "can fall within the normal range," but that does not mean "anything can be left alone." Especially sudden, strong symptoms should be medically checked for safety (other media also caution that severe headaches require evaluation). The Independent

Guidelines for considering consultation (general)

• Sudden severe headache, neurological symptoms (numbness, paralysis, changes in consciousness, etc.)

• Recurrent or heavy bleeding (including nosebleeds)

• Severe or worsening pain

• Prolonged mood depression or