A 34-year-old man complained of sudden and severe headaches during sexual activity, or orgasmic period, for 2 months.  The headache developed abruptly with an orgasm and then decreased shortly over a period of 4 to 8 hours.

It was the headaches of this man that prompted researchers to study the Orgasmic Headache (OH), a sudden and severe headache that occurs at the time of or shortly after an orgasm, including during masturbation.

OH’s are sometimes referred to as “sexual headaches” or coital cephalalgia. The headaches usually have an immediate onset, with some gradually worsening during sexual intercourse.  “Explosive headaches,” OHs that occur instantaneously at the onset of orgasm have also been reported.

In a recent study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, researchers explored the relationship between OH and migraines.  Magnetic resonance angiography revealed that the man’s middle cerebral arteries were experiencing severe spasms.

More prevalent in men, by a ratio of 3:1, sufferers of OH are sometimes embarrassed with talking about their condition, which suggests realistically the prevalence may be higher.

The MayoClinic.com suggests OHs aren’t usually a cause for concern.  But consult your doctor right away if you experience a headache during sexual activity – especially if it begins abruptly or it’s your first headache of this type.

Here are 4 symptoms you need to know….