After sex, the body undergoes several physical, emotional, and hormonal changes as it returns to its pre-sex state and processes the experience:

Physical Changes

• The heart rate and breathing slow down as the body recovers from the exertion of sex

• Muscles relax, including those in the genitals and uterus for people with vaginas, which revert to their normal size and tone

• Some people may experience post-sex sweating as the body cools down from increased temperature during sex

• It is common to feel some abdominal or muscle cramping similar to menstrual cramps, which usually subside shortly after

• Some may notice vaginal or genital itching or irritation, often due to friction, dryness, or reactions to lubricants or condoms; urinary tract infections (UTIs) are also a common post-sex risk, especially for women and people with vaginas

Hormonal and Emotional Effects

• The hormone oxytocin, known as the "love hormone," is released during and after sex, promoting feelings of trust, closeness, and attachment to a partner

• Dopamine, the "feel-good" hormone, is also released, causing euphoria and reduced social inhibition

• Prolactin is released post-orgasm, which is associated with feelings of relaxation and sleepiness, explaining why many people feel tired after sex

• Some may experience emotional sensitivity or even negative feelings such as sadness or anxiety, a condition known as postcoital dysphoria (PCD)

Behavioral Recommendations

• It is advised to gently clean the genital area after sex to reduce the risk of infections like UTIs

• Urinating after sex can help flush out bacteria and prevent UTIs, especially for women and people with vaginas

In summary, after sex, the body gradually returns to a resting state while releasing hormones that foster emotional bonding and relaxation. Physical sensations such as cramping, itching, or fatigue are common and generally normal, though care should be taken to maintain hygiene to prevent infections