Why Do I Find it Hard to Sleep After Sex?
Hey, have you ever pondered about the impact sex has on your sleep? For many, it’s a blissful and calming activity that can actually enhance their shut-eye. However, others might find it challenging to drift off after getting frisky, which can be quite frustrating.
If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “Why on earth can’t I sleep after sex?”, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll dive into the reasons behind this conundrum and share some handy tips for catching those Z’s after a steamy session.
Wide Awake After Sex: Body Temperature
One potential explanation for the struggle to sleep after sex could be an increase in body temperature. Naturally, our bodies warm up during sex due to all the physical exertion. But, fun fact: a cooler body temperature is actually more conducive to sleep.
To tackle this issue, try maintaining a cool bedroom atmosphere after your intimate encounter. You might even want to hop in a cold shower to bring your body temperature down. Cold showers are known for their various benefits, and this could be the key to combating post-sex wakefulness.
Cold showers have been known to have many benefits, but this could be one that helps counteract wakefulness after sex.
Discover more information on whether it is better to sleep naked for optimal sleep or not.
Dopamine and Norepinephrine Release:
Another factor that may hinder sleep after sex is a rise in dopamine levels. Dopamine, a hormone released during sex, is linked to pleasure and reward. But, there’s a catch: it can also stimulate the production of norepinephrine, a hormone that amps up arousal and alertness.
As a result, sleep might seem elusive after a passionate rendezvous where you will have to enjoy staring up at the ceiling for hours.
Cortisol:
Cortisol, a hormone released during moments of stress or excitement, can also come into play during sex. This pesky hormone can mess with your sleep patterns.
Plus, if you’ve been particularly energetic during your intimate session, cortisol levels might remain high, making it even more challenging to nod off.
WHY Can't I Sleep?! Too hot Energetic Wide awake Not tired anymore Help me
Prolactin:
While dopamine and norepinephrine can keep some people awake after sex, men may have an easier time falling asleep thanks to prolactin. This hormone, released after ejaculation, is associated with feelings of relaxation and drowsiness.
That’s why men often feel sleepy after getting it on.
Oxytocin:
For women who didn’t reach orgasm during sex, the lack of oxytocin might make sleep more difficult. Oxytocin, a hormone released during orgasm, promotes relaxation and bonding.
Without it, women might find it harder to unwind and drift off to dreamland.
Our Tips to get to sleep after sex:
If you find yourself wide awake after sex, try these tips:
1. Plan your intimacy: Schedule your intimate moments earlier in the evening, giving you time to unwind before bedtime.
2. Keep your bedroom cool after sex, as this can help bring down / regulate your body temperature.
3. Take a cold shower after sex to help cool your body down.
4. Work as a team & collaborate with your partner to ensure both of you reach orgasm, releasing those relaxing, sleep-promoting hormones.
5. Consider taking magnesium glycinate supplements, as magnesium is known to promote relaxation and sleep.
6. Use cooler bedding: If you naturally run hot you might want to hear this, as you know sex can make this worse. Use thing’s like bamboo bedding or linen so stay that little bit cooler. Stay clear of bedding mixed with polyester as these are not cooling materials 7 aren’t great for the skin.
Sleep after sex summary
In conclusion, while sex is generally seen as a positive activity for sleep, some might struggle to catch those Z’s afterward. This could be due to various factors, including body temperature, hormone levels, and stress.
By following the tips we’ve shared, you can boost your chances of enjoying a restful night after a passionate escapade. Remember, sleep is just as crucial as sex, so make sure you prioritise both for a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
For more insights on how to get to sleep fast or how to fix your sleep schedule you can see our blog posts.
