Stomach pain during and after sex

Pain with penetration may be felt in the lower abdomen when pelvic muscles tighten or a position creates deep pressure. Note whether it is sharp, cramping or burning, and whether it starts during penetration, orgasm or afterwards. Vaginal bleeding, unusual discharge, pain when urinating or fever can signal an infection needing assessment. Digestive conditions such as Crohn's disease, diverticular disease or gastritis can be aggravated by movement or pressure, although the timing alone cannot identify the cause. A missed period or possible pregnancy changes the urgency of new pelvic pain.

Stop if pain begins and allow symptoms to settle. If you try sex again, use slower movements, a comfortable position and enough lubricant; avoid any activity that reproduces pain. Note the timing, depth, side, bleeding, discharge, urinary symptoms and bowel symptoms. Arrange a confidential appointment with a GP or sexual-health clinician if pain recurs, affects intimacy or is accompanied by discharge or urinary discomfort. Do not douche or use unprescribed treatments.

Get urgent help for sudden severe lower-abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, shoulder-tip pain, fever with marked illness, or pain when pregnancy is possible. Seek prompt care for pain with vomiting, a swollen abdomen, blood in stool, new genital sores or difficulty passing urine. These warning signs need assessment rather than self-treatment because pelvic, urinary and abdominal causes can overlap.

Could the pain be pelvic, urinary or digestive? Would an examination or infection test help? Should I take a pregnancy test, and what symptoms mean I should return urgently?