having sex may be the last thing on your mind while you have a headache. but don’t be surprised if you feel stronger urges to get intimate in the time leading up to a migraine — as much as 24 hours before. doctors aren’t sure why this occurs. according to researcher james couch md of the university of oklahoma health sciences center it may have something to do with an increase in the levels of serotonin. this brain chemical may be linked to sexual appetite. moreover recent research has shown that for up to 20% of women having an orgasm may stop a migraine in its tracks immediately relieving the pain. but this isn’t the first time orgasm has been linked to pain relief. steve goldstein md professor of obstetrics and gynecology at nyu medical center in new york city says some women find it helps menstrual cramps — possibly because of a release of bio-chemicals that flood the body and relax the uterus relieving pain.
can an oncoming migraine cause sexual desire? can orgasms relieve the pain of a migraine headache or menstrual cramps?