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It turns out having relations with a significant other can have benefits to more than just one area of the body. Aside from the happy feelings the act creates, the physical reaction reaches to the innermost workings of the human body. The health benefits of sex extend to heart health, helps boost the immune system and reduces stress.
According to information released by Planned Parenthood, an organization that supports women’s rights and is a health care provider, intercourse is a multi-level system. Extending beyond just physical intimacy, sex includes watching adult films, using toys or having dirty conversations over the phone. Regardless of the methodology, keeping the body in top condition is key in having a healthy sex life.
“There are definitely health benefits to taking care of the muscles that you’re born with,” says John Beiter, Ph.D., certified sex therapist.
Often used as a tool for stress relief, intimacy shared between two partners can inevitably help to curb tensions. Paired with the physical act, studies have shown it can also help relieve stress and anxiety through the release of oxytocin in the brain, the body’s natural “feel good” hormone. The release of the chemical in the bloodstream also helps partners achieve intense finales as it is directly tied to orgasms.
An argument or disagreement can put a wet blanket on love. A breakdown in communication can create problems in the bedroom and greatly affect the level of intimacy. Maintaining an open mind and acknowledging the needs and desires of your partner are ways to help electrify the moment.
“When people come to see me about a sex problem they’re having, it boils down to communication. Sex is a biological function and can be used as a stress reliever and increase bonds of intimacy. With that being said, that’s when communication comes in,” says Beiter.
After a night of passion, sleep might be the natural next step. Sex can also help ease insomnia and other issues with sleep. Just as oxytocin is released during the height of the act, prolactin is released afterwards and aids in feelings of relaxation and sleepiness. While these feelings are biological, the feelings can be intensified when mutually shared and expressed. When the needs and desires of both parties are clearly defined and executed, the effects are transferred to their chemical makeup.
“One of the questions you always have to ask is ‘what is sex? How do you define it?’ If it’s just intercourse and climax, that is called goal-oriented sex. On the other hand, it’s connecting with someone in a way that connects you with your partner,” says Beiter. “[It gets bad] when it’s one-sided, when one person has to have it their way during intercourse.”
For men, multiple releases can help to prevent cancer. The Journal of the American Medical Association published their findings citing men able to reach climax at least 21 times a month are least likely to develop prostate cancer. In women, intercourse helps to improve bladder control. The constant contracting and releasing of the pelvic floor act as crunches for your body creating strong pelvic and vaginal muscles. This can be especially important in conception and childbirth.
As both men and women age, there are some benefits to intercourse that span both genders. Sex is known to lower blood pressure, keep the immune system intact, lower the risk of heart attack and burn calories through activity. Growing older creates a necessity to take overall health seriously, but to especially be keen in caring for the love and reproductive organs.
“Your body changes and it’s learning to accept it. As you are, it’s that ‘use it or lose it’ perspective. Not in a mechanical way, but maintaining sex and intimacy with your partner,” says Beiter.
While sex can provide a wealth of health, it is important to practice safely and responsibly.
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