Love Hurts: Seven Common Sex Injuries You Should Know About and How to Prevent Them

From bruises to broken penises, here are the most common sex-related injuries—why they happen, how to treat them, and smart tips to avoid them.

When Passion Turns to Pain

Let’s face it—sex can be exhilarating, intimate, and wonderfully wild. But sometimes, things go from hot to hazardous in a flash. Sex injuries are more common than many care to admit, with random unexpected “oops” moments.

According to medical expert Dr Jonathan Redelinghuys, these injuries show up in emergency rooms more frequently than most would believe. And while they may be brushed off in pop culture or whispered about in friend circles, the reality is that they can range from mildly embarrassing to medically urgent.

Here’s a deep (and no, not that deep) dive into seven of the most common sex injuries—and crucially, how to prevent them.

1. Broken Penis: Yes, It’s a Real Thing

Despite lacking an actual bone, the penis can suffer a fracture. A sudden, sharp bending motion during vigorous or misaligned thrusting—especially in positions like doggy style or cowgirl—can cause the erectile tissue to rupture.

🩺 Symptoms:

• A loud “pop” sound
• Immediate pain
• Bruising and swelling
• Loss of erection

🏥 Treatment:
Seek immediate medical attention. Delays can lead to permanent damage, scarring, or erectile dysfunction.

🛡️ Prevention Tip:
Slow down and communicate during position changes. When in doubt, pause and reset your rhythm.

2. Accidental Anal Penetration: A Painful Surprise

Sometimes, in the heat of the moment, things slip—literally. Accidental anal penetration is a known injury risk, especially when lubrication is insufficient and positions aren’t properly aligned. This can result in tears, bleeding, or severe pain for the receiving partner.

🩺 Symptoms:

• Anal pain
• Bleeding
• Muscle strain
• Emotional distress

🏥 Treatment:
Clean the area gently, apply a cold compress, and seek medical help if there’s ongoing pain or bleeding. Emotional reassurance is also key.

🛡️ Prevention Tip:
Use plenty of lubrication, communicate openly, and be mindful of alignment—particularly during rear-entry positions. Always approach anal play with consent and preparation.

3. Objects Gone Rogue: The ‘I Slipped and Fell on It’ Scenario

Trauma units have heard it all. From deodorant cans to remote controls, foreign objects often end up where they shouldn’t. The rectum, acting like a vacuum, can pull objects inward, making them difficult (and dangerous) to retrieve.

🩺 Symptoms:

• Rectal pain or bleeding
• Abdominal discomfort
• Inability to remove the object

🏥 Treatment:
Do not attempt home removal. Go straight to the ER. Doctors prioritize safety, not judgment.

🛡️ Prevention Tip:
Always use toys with flared bases specifically designed for anal use. Curiosity is healthy—recklessness is not.

4. Pulled Muscles and Bad Backs: Sexy Doesn’t Mean Olympic Lifting

Throwing your partner against the wall or attempting a spontaneous lift in the shower might seem like something out of a steamy film—but it can quickly turn into a visit to the chiropractor.

🩺 Symptoms:

• Muscle strain
• Lower back pain
• Herniated discs (in extreme cases)

🏥 Treatment:
Rest, gentle stretching, and over-the-counter painkillers. For nerve pain or persistent issues, see a medical professional.

🛡️ Prevention Tip:
Know your limits. Use sturdy furniture or the floor for support and avoid slippery surfaces like bathroom tiles.

5. Friction Burns and Vaginal Tearing: When Things Get Too Hot

Lack of lubrication is a recipe for trouble. Rushed or prolonged sessions without enough moisture can cause vaginal or anal tearing and penile abrasions, especially during oral sex.

🩺 Symptoms:

• Burning or stinging sensations
• Redness and swelling
• Bleeding or discomfort during urination

🏥 Treatment:
Use antiseptic wipes gently and monitor for signs of infection. If the area becomes red, swollen, or begins to weep, see a doctor.

🛡️ Prevention Tip:
Use high-quality lubricants—especially for anal or extended sessions. If using condoms, make sure the lube is compatible.

6. Allergic Reactions: Not the Kind of Heat You Want

Latex condoms, flavoured lubes, scented oils, or even laundry detergent residues on bedsheets can trigger allergic reactions. These range from mild itching to severe blistering.

🩺 Symptoms:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Itching or burning
• Hives or blisters

🏥 Treatment:
Take antihistamines. For severe reactions, seek urgent medical care.

🛡️ Prevention Tip:
Patch-test new products on the skin before use, choose hypoallergenic products, and wash bedding in fragrance-free detergents.

7. Tongue, Lip, and Love Bites Gone Wrong

Biting can be sexy—until it’s not. Split lips, bitten tongues, cracked teeth, and overly aggressive love bites can turn a fun session into a dental emergency.

🩺 Symptoms:

• Bleeding
• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising

🏥 Treatment:
Clean wounds gently and apply a cold compress. If there’s nerve exposure or uncontrollable bleeding, visit a doctor.

🛡️ Prevention Tip:
Keep it playful, not painful. Know your partner’s limits, and be mindful during passionate moments.

Bonus Injury: Infections and UTIs

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are not caused by trauma but are common post-sex complications—especially when hygiene and protection are neglected.

🩺 Symptoms of UTIs:

• Burning sensation during urination
• Lower abdominal pain
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

🏥 Treatment:
Hydrate, avoid caffeine, and see a doctor for antibiotics.

🛡️ Prevention Tip:
Always pee after sex, use protection, and maintain good hygiene.

Prioritise Safety, Not Just Pleasure

“Most of these injuries and infections are entirely preventable,” says Dr Redelinghuys. “Communicate, use proper products, don’t rush, and if something doesn’t feel right—stop.”

Sex is meant to be fun, consensual, and safe. While there’s no warning label on passion, being informed is the next best thing.

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