Sex is fun, pleasurable, exciting and healthy! Unfortunately, when we hear about sex, it is often framed in negative terms around issues of abuse, disease and so-called dysfunctions. This negative outlook is fuelled by a range of factors from fear and religious oppression to unnecessary medical and economic motivations. But there is good news on the horizon! Research indicates that sex actually carries a host of health benefits and can help you feel and look your best.
One study out of Scotland found that men and women who had recently engaged in sexual intercourse responded better and had lower blood pressure when exposed to stressful situations. Another concluded that frequent intercourse is positively correlated with lower blood pressure and resting heart rates. These findings suggest that sex can actually be a fun stress-buster. So the next time you’re feeling stressed out, consider reaching for your partner or your trusted vibrator before heading to the freezer for that Rocky Road therapy. Your body will thank you – twice!
Other potential health and beauty benefits of sex include glowing skin, bright eyes and shiny hair associated with increased levels of DHEA. One study by Dr. David Weeks found that those who reported having sex an average of four times per week looked approximately 10 years younger than their actual age. Also, oxytocin (the pleasure hormone) levels increase just before orgasm, and this can have a calming effect on the body and promote restful sleep. In addition to explaining why many people pass out after sex, the induced state of relaxation may explain why so many people are in a great mood after a good session of loving.
Cardiovascular fitness and the potential for muscle toning and weight loss may be the most obvious health benefits of sex. Intense moments can include lots of bouncing, wriggling, flexing, sweating and bending all in the name of pleasure, intimacy and even heart-health. Frequent ejaculations are also associated with lowered risk of prostate cancer in men and orgasmic contractions can help alleviate menstrual cramps and other aches and pains.
Not surprisingly, sex can improve your mood, ward off depression, promote intimacy and make you feel great! And fret not if you’re single, because solo-sex not only feels wonderful (most people experience their first orgasm through masturbation), but it is also linked with promoting overall health.
So go ahead and indulge. Sex does a body good!
Have fun, experiment and always practice safer sex.
Jessica O’Reilly is a Toronto-based sexologist and PhD researcher in sexual health education. She is passionate about human rights, sex-positive education and social justice issues and works as a consultant with private clients, corporations and social service agencies. Learn more about Jessica and her sex-positive work at www.jessicaoreilly.com
