Sex File: Why do I cry after great sex?

The phenomenon is called "postcoital dysphoria", or "post-sex blues", and it is characterised by melancholy, sadness, crying or sobbing after sexual intercourse

Suzi Godson: "The hormone prolactin, which is released after orgasm, is associated with feelings of relaxation, but it can also bring on emotional sensitivity." Picture: iStock.

Why have I started crying after orgasm with my lovely new boyfriend, even though the sex is great? I'm in my late 30s, and this has never happened with previous partners or on my own. I feel embarrassed and a bit hollowed out for a while afterwards. What's going on?

First of all, there is no reason to feel embarrassed. The phenomenon you describe is called "postcoital dysphoria", or "post-sex blues", and it is characterised by melancholy, sadness, crying or sobbing after sexual intercourse.