Sex and health

Regular sex strengthens the immune system and thus protects us from colds. Sexual activity (from coitus to masturbation) sends signals to the pituitary gland that stimulate the endocrine system, including the thymus gland. Research published in Psychology Reports suggests that sexual intercourse at least once or twice a week increases the level of immunoglobulin A by 30%, which helps the body fight colds and flu.

Scientists in a 2000 study published in Biological Psychology found that regular sex normalizes blood pressure. Both men and women between the ages of 20 and 47 participated in the experiment. All participants had optimal health indicators. Thus, intimacy can help people suffering from weather dependence when they feel unwell.

Regular sex reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, and also reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes by half. An increase in the amount of sex hormones (especially estrogen) has a beneficial effect on heart health. Lack of sex, on the contrary, leads to a risk of heart and vascular diseases.

After sexual intercourse, the body relaxes, so making love is considered one of the ways to relieve tension. During orgasm, hormones and neurotransmitters are released, which have a calming effect. Regular sexual activity reduces stress hormone levels.

I often feel sleepy after sex. It’s about the hormone oxytocin, which is released as a result of orgasm. It causes a feeling of drowsiness and makes sleep more profound.

The relationship between sex and sleep also works in the opposite direction. For example, women who get an extra hour of sleep have a higher level of sexual desire the next day.

Intimate relationships are beneficial for the overall physical condition of the body. For example, 1,500 calories are spent on one ejaculation. Regular sexual activity can be compared to jogging or going to the gym — different muscle groups strain during intercourse.

Cortisol is released during sex. It is he who is responsible for the feeling of love and affection. Thus, making love can rekindle this wonderful feeling with renewed vigor and simply help to maintain it.

Lack of sex can lead to accumulation and stagnation of insulin. An active sex life reduces its level. People with diabetes are shown sexual activity as a prevention of attacks of high blood sugar.

Sex can also be considered a cosmetic procedure. Progesterone and estrogen are released during orgasm. These hormones are responsible for the firmness and elasticity of the skin, as well as for the growth of hair and nails. Women who have regular intimate relationships look 5-10 years younger.

Menopause is the period of cessation of the sex glands in women, caused by age—related changes. It is often accompanied by sweating, vaginal dryness, sleep problems, and fever attacks. Its symptoms can be alleviated through sexual activity. Due to the hormones released during the process, unpleasant sensations decrease and vaginal dryness decreases.

A man’s regular orgasm, that is, at least 21 times a month, reduces the risk of prostate cancer by 22%, while ejaculation is important. There are two theories on this: according to the first, ejaculation “flushes out” dangerous chemicals from the prostate that contribute to the development of cancer, and according to the second, due to frequent ejaculations, sperm is renewed and there are fewer old cells that can turn into cancerous.

If we draw a line under all the above facts, we can conclude that regular sexual activity throughout life increases its duration. In addition, scientists from the University of California at San Francisco have concluded that having sex at least once a week slows down aging in women.

Undoubtedly, intimate life is an important factor affecting human health. In order to live a comfortable and fulfilling life, sexual relations should not be overlooked. Having sex two or three times a week, well-established communication with your partner and a responsible attitude towards protection and intimate health are another building block to your well—being and longevity.