HEALTH BENEFITS OF SEX: FOR MEN, FOR WOMEN, FOR BOTH
Sex brings a lot of fun and excitement to a relationship. Herein are some of the health benefits of sex, including; boosting the immune system, reducing stress, and making you be motivated.
Sex has always been viewed as a way of having fun and bringing excitement into a relationship. It brings a lot of pleasure, but there are cases where if you stay for too long without sex, you will notice that it is harming you either directly or indirectly. In general, sex is good for your health, especially your mental and physical health for various reasons. Some of the health benefits of sex are;
Benefits of Sex to Men
Lower Blood Pressure
Hay et al. (2014) noted that having sex reduces this risk because it lowers blood pressure. Men who have HEALTH BENEFITS OF SEX: FOR MEN, FOR WOMEN, FOR BOTH e sex regularly are at an advantage because it boosts the blood flow, reducing blood pressure.
Minimizes the Risk of Prostate Cancer
According to Schover (2015), men who orgasm often are less likely to have prostate cancer. Although not proven, it is believed that regular orgasm or ejaculation gets rid of anything in the prostate that would cause damage or increase the risk of getting cancer.
Increases Fertility
Most couples who plan to conceive always try to have sex on their window of ovulation thinking that this will increase their chances of having a child. Instead, this will hinder or block their chances of conceiving. Such couples should try and have sex regularly to increase their chances of conceiving. Flowers (1997) showed that sex increases semen production, especially when sex was not that frequent. In general, the more men have sex with their partners, the more likely they are to conceive.
Reduces Depression
The rise of mental or psychological disorders pushes men to depression. Peplau et al. (1977) noted that having regular sex increases the connection and bond between partners. They also get to have a sense of belonging.
Benefits of Sex to Women
Strengthens the Pelvic Floor
As women age and even after childbirth, the strength of the pelvic muscles is likely to reduce, leading to a loss in bladder control. According to Handa et al. (2008), having sex regularly increases the strength of the pelvic muscles, making you have total control over your bladder. It is of great help, especially when a woman reaches menopause.
Easier Labor for Pregnant Women
Sex strengthens the pelvic muscles, making it possible for a pregnant woman to have an easier delivery. The strong pelvic muscles also make recovery after birth faster than those having less sex.
Relieve Period Cramps
When having or expecting periods, most ladies experience painful cramps. Silvestro & Dalton (2022) suggested that having sex will minimize the rate at which the cramps occur and the pain that comes with it. This is visible through the orgasm contractions and the release of the uterus muscles, making them relax. Parmar & Malik (2017) noted that having sex releases the feel-good hormones that hinder women from feeling pain.
Benefits of Sex to Both Women and Men
Boosts the Immune System
According to Pitychoutis & Papadopoulou-Daifoti (2010), people who have regular sex have a higher chance of boosting their immunity. Their white cells can fight against any pathogens trying to bring down their immune system. The body can produce more antibodies that fight common diseases such as a cold. If you interact with people daily and wish to boost your immunity, the best way to do it is by having sex regularly.
Improves Blood Pressure and Heart Health Issues
Konhilas et al. (2004) noted that sex is as same as exercising. It improves blood flow and strengthens the heart. It also helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of getting a heart attack.
Reduces Stress and Sleep
Parmar & Malik (2017) noted that sex releases some feel-good hormones that make you happy and relaxed. In most cases, they make you feel sleepy. This is why most men feel relaxed and sleepy after having sex with their partners.
Burns Calories
Having sex counts as doing an exercise. If you are not a fan of doing exercises, you can always try and burn those calories in bed. The difference lies in the activity both of you are doing. According to Lupton (2015), having sex for a longer time will help you burn so many calories.
Conclusion
Sex should involve having fun and exploring new things with your partner. Sex is highly pleasurable, and it comes with exciting feelings. If you get a consistent partner who you have sex with regularly, sex will be great for your health. It increases women’s libido, including those experiencing menopause, and makes them have a higher sex drive. When indulging in sex, get into the mood, knowing that it comes with great benefits to your health.
References
Flowers, W. L. (1997). Management Of Boars For Efficient Semen Production. Journal Of Reproduction And Fertility-Supplements Only, (52), 67-78.
Handa, V. L., Cundiff, G., Chang, H. H., & Helzlsouer, K. J. (2008). Female Sexual Function And Pelvic Floor Disorders. Obstetrics And Gynecology, 111(5), 1045.
Hay, M., Xue, B., & Johnson, A. K. (2014). Yes! Sex Matters: Sex, The Brain And Blood Pressure. Current Hypertension Reports, 16(8), 1-9.
Konhilas, J. P., Maass, A. H., Luckey, S. W., Stauffer, B. L., Olson, E. N., & Leinwand, L. A. (2004). Sex Modifies Exercise And Cardiac Adaptation In Mice. American Journal Of Physiology-Heart And Circulatory Physiology, 287(6), H2768-H2776.
Lupton, D. (2015). Quantified Sex: A Critical Analysis Of Sexual And Reproductive Self-Tracking Using Apps. Culture, Health & Sexuality, 17(4), 440-453.
Parmar, M. P., & Malik, M. S. (2017). Oxytocin-The Hormone Of Love. International Organization Of Scientific Research Journal Of Pharmacy And Biological Sciences, 12(6), 1-9.
Peplau, L. A., Rubin, Z., & Hill, C. T. (1977). Sexual Intimacy In Dating Relationships. Journal Of Social Issues, 33(2), 86-109.
Pitychoutis, P. M., & Papadopoulou-Daifoti, Z. (2010). Of Depression And Immunity: Does Sex Matter?. The The International Journal Of Neuropsychopharmacology, 13(5), 675-689.
Schover, L. R. (2015). Sexual Healing In Patients With Prostate Cancer On Hormone Therapy. American Society Of Clinical Oncology Educational Book, 35(1), E562-E566.
Silvestro, S., & Dalton, A. (2022). Period Sex: Tips, Benefits, Risks. Women's Health.