Occipital Pain During Ejaculation: Causes and Solutions - Neurology

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Pain in the back of the head after ejaculation?


Hello doctor, for the past few days, I've been experiencing pain at the back of my head when I'm about to ejaculate.
The pain lasts for about 5 minutes and has an intensity of around 4.
I'm wondering if this could be related to the stress from exams.
If I go to the hospital, should I see a urologist, a neurologist, or a neurosurgeon?

p1, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/17

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology


Hello: Can you have a neurologist check for cerebrovascular abnormalities? Below is an excerpt from the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (beta) in Chinese for your reference:
6.7.3 Headache attributed to reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS)
Introduction: Headache caused by reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is typically characterized by recurrent thunderclap headaches occurring over a period of more than 1-2 weeks, often triggered by sexual activity, exertion, Valsalva maneuvers, and/or emotional stress.
Headache may be the only symptom of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome.
Diagnostic criteria:
A.
Any new headache that meets the criteria
B.
Diagnosis of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS)
C.
At least one of the following supportive criteria demonstrating causality:
1.
Headache, with or without (clinical) focal deficits and/or seizures, leading to angiographic findings of a "string of beads" appearance consistent with the diagnosis of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome.
2.
Headache meets at least one of the following characteristics:
a) Recurrent within one month, with a thunderclap onset
b) Triggered by sexual activity, exertion, Valsalva maneuvers, emotional stress, bathing, and/or showering
3.
No significant new headache occurs more than one month after the onset
D.
No other more appropriate ICHD-3 diagnosis, and aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage has been excluded through appropriate examination.
Explanation: Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a poorly understood condition characterized clinically by severe, diffuse headache, typically presenting as sudden thunderclap headaches, similar to those caused by aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).
RCVS is the most common cause of recurrent thunderclap headaches occurring over days or weeks.

Headaches attributed to reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome may also have several rare patterns of onset: rapid progression within hours or gradual progression over several days.
Headache is often the only symptom of RCVS, but it may also be associated with fluctuating focal neurological signs and occasionally seizures.
Angiography typically shows alternating segmental arterial constriction and dilation (the "strings and beads" appearance).
However, MRI, CT, and even catheter angiography may be normal within one week after clinical onset.
When patients experience recurrent thunderclap headaches with normal angiography but meet all other diagnostic criteria for RCVS, they should be considered to have 6.7.3.1 highly probable headache attributed to reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome.
The likelihood of abnormal findings on brain MRI is 30-80%, showing a variety of lesions, including intracranial hemorrhage (subarachnoid, intraparenchymal, and/or subdural), cerebral infarction, and/or edema due to reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome.
At least half of RCVS cases are secondary, primarily related to postpartum states and/or the use of vasoconstrictive substances, including illicit drugs, sympathomimetics, and serotonergic medications.
This condition may resolve spontaneously within 1-3 months, with headaches alleviating and arterial abnormalities disappearing (hence the term "reversible").
However, strokes caused by RCVS may lead to permanent damage.

Reply Date: 2020/04/17

More Info


Experiencing occipital pain during ejaculation can be concerning and may have various underlying causes. The pain you describe, occurring at the back of the head (occipital region) during sexual climax, can be attributed to several factors, including tension headaches, muscle strain, or even vascular issues. Given that the pain lasts for about five minutes and has a moderate intensity (around 4 on a pain scale), it is essential to consider both physical and psychological factors that might contribute to your symptoms.

One potential cause of this occipital pain could be related to tension or stress. You mentioned that you are under significant pressure due to exams, which can lead to muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. This tension can radiate to the occipital area, especially during physical exertion or sexual activity, which may explain the pain you experience during ejaculation. Stress and anxiety can also exacerbate headaches and muscle tension, creating a cycle of discomfort.

Another possibility is that the pain could be related to a type of headache known as a "sexual headache" or "orgasmic headache." These headaches typically occur just before or during orgasm and can be quite intense. They are often benign but can be alarming. If this is the case, it may be beneficial to consult with a neurologist who can help differentiate between primary headaches and secondary headaches that may be caused by other underlying conditions.

If you decide to seek medical attention, starting with a visit to a neurologist would be advisable. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to rule out any serious conditions such as vascular issues or structural abnormalities. If the neurologist determines that your symptoms are related to stress or tension, they may recommend relaxation techniques, physical therapy, or medication to help manage your symptoms.

In addition to medical evaluation, there are several self-care strategies you can implement to help alleviate the pain. These include:
1. Stress Management: Engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help reduce overall stress levels and muscle tension.

2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can improve circulation and reduce muscle tension. However, be mindful of how your body feels during and after exercise.

3. Posture Awareness: Maintaining good posture, especially when studying or sitting for long periods, can help prevent muscle strain in the neck and shoulders.

4. Hydration and Nutrition: Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can also play a role in reducing headache frequency and intensity.

5. Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress to the neck and shoulders may help relieve muscle tension and reduce pain.

6. Sleep Hygiene: Ensuring you get adequate rest and maintain a regular sleep schedule can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

In summary, while occipital pain during ejaculation can be distressing, it is often manageable with appropriate medical evaluation and lifestyle modifications. Consulting with a neurologist is a prudent first step to ensure that any serious underlying conditions are ruled out and to receive tailored advice for your specific situation. Remember to take care of your mental health as well, as managing stress can significantly impact your physical symptoms.

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