Why does my fiancé laugh after orgasming?

Dear Reader,  

Although it might feel like an orgasm isn’t a laughing matter, post-ejaculation giggles are more common than you might think. Though it’s unclear why this happens, it’s possible that it’s due to the rush of natural chemicals in the brain that cause intense pleasure and difficulty controlling certain behaviors. Talking to your partner about this response might help reduce your concern and increase your confidence during sex.  

What happens in the brain during an orgasm?  

During an orgasm, parts of the brain associated with self-control are inhibited. That’s why you might feel “out of control,” curse, or make involuntary movements in the heat of the moment. This happens alongside the release of endorphins, which are natural chemicals in the brain that produce a feeling of euphoria and pleasure. This rush of pleasurable hormones can sometimes feel overwhelming, almost like too much of a good thing.  

After an orgasm, there’s another rush of chemicals that produce a feeling of satisfaction. These chemicals calm down the body and re-establish rational decision-making and self-control. Basically, there’s a lot happening in the brain, very quickly. All these shifts might lead to “peri-orgasmic phenomena” or non-sexual responses to an orgasm.  

What are some pre-orgasmic phenomena responses?  

These responses can a number of reactions, including: 

• Laughing
• Crying
• Sneezing
• Seizures
• Headaches
• Panic attacks 

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough research to determine why people have these responses, but they are relatively common. The most frequent responses are laughing or crying, and they’re more likely to happen with a partner than during masturbation.  

How can you discuss your anxieties with your partner?  

Although your partner’s bedroom laughter might feel personal, it might be helpful to remember that this response is most likely involuntary. That said, you might take this as an opportunity to think about why it’s making you anxious. You might also feel better if you discuss your concerns openly with your partner. Although it might feel like an awkward topic to bring up, it could help you squash some of your stress. 

Some questions to reflect on or discuss with him include: Do you feel comfortable talking to him about sex? Has he done anything else to make you feel insecure in bed? How do you feel after learning more about this behavior and understanding that it’s not unusual? Would it be helpful for you to know whether this response is new, or if he’s experienced it with other partners or during solo masturbation? 

If you’re still concerned about the behavior after hearing what he has to say, you two might discuss the possibility of meeting with a mental health professional. They can help mediate these sorts of conversations with the two of you more frequently.  

Though it may feel personal, having an open conversation about things going on in the bedroom may open up more fun for both of you!