Sneezing after sex, also known as sexually induced sneezing, is a phenomenon linked to the autonomic nervous system. This system controls involuntary bodily functions, including sneezing and sexual responses. A faulty connection within this system might trigger a sneeze during or after sexual activity.
Understanding the Autonomic Nervous System's Role
The autonomic nervous system regulates many bodily processes without conscious control. The link between sneezing and orgasm might stem from a miscommunication within this system. During sexual arousal, the body experiences significant physiological changes, potentially overwhelming the system and leading to a sneeze as a reflex response. The Guardian article supports this theory, stating that sneezing and sex may be connected by a "faulty connection in the autonomic nervous system that controls both the sneeze reflex and sexual responses." http://www.theguardian.com/science/2008/dec/19/reproduction-neuroscience
Other Potential Explanations
While the autonomic nervous system connection is a leading theory, other possibilities exist:
- Vasomotor rhinitis: This condition causes nasal congestion, a runny nose, and sneezing after sexual activity. The intense emotions and physical changes during sex may trigger vasomotor rhinitis symptoms. https://www.verywellhealth.com/sex-allergy-pregnancy-82665
- Achoo syndrome (Autosomal Dominant Compelling Helio-Ophthalmic Outburst): This rare genetic condition causes sneezing triggered by bright light, but it can also be associated with sneezing during orgasm. https://www.thetimes.com/article/sex-advice-im-a-middle-aged-man-and-when-i-climax-i-have-sneezing-fits-which-spoil-the-mood-can-i-prevent-this-56dwp7cg8f0
- Parasympathetic nervous system stimulation: The parasympathetic system's stimulation during sex is another possible explanation. This stimulation could trigger the sneeze reflex. https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/when-sex-brings-on-a-desire-to-sneeze-not-snooze-1.909
Is it Common?
While not widely discussed, the phenomenon of sneezing after sex seems to be more common than initially thought. One source notes that "Possibly that is much more common that we think as well," referring to the genetic inheritance of both sneezing and sexual responses. http://www.theguardian.com/science/2008/dec/19/reproduction-neuroscience
