Surprising Benefits of Sex You Should Know

Introduction

Sex is more than just a pleasurable experience; it has numerous health benefits that can improve your overall well-being. From boosting your mood to reducing the risk of certain diseases, here’s what you need to know about the benefits of sex.

1. Sex Makes You Happier

It’s no surprise that sex can make you happy, but there’s a scientific reason behind it. During orgasm, your body releases a hormone called oxytocin. Oxytocin is known for reducing stress and promoting feelings of relaxation and happiness. This hormone can make you feel closer to your partner and improve your mood significantly.

Research shows that oxytocin levels plateau about 10 minutes after orgasm. To maintain that good feeling, try cuddling after sex. Physical affection like cuddling can keep your oxytocin levels high, enhancing your mood even further. This is one of the many benefits of sex that contribute to overall happiness.

2. Benefits of Sex: Lowers Your Prostate Cancer Risk

One of the surprising benefits of sex is that frequent ejaculation may reduce the risk of prostate cancer, according to a study from Boston University of Public Health. The researchers surveyed nearly 32,000 men and tracked them for 18 years. They found that men aged 20 to 29 who ejaculated 21 times or more each month were 19% less likely to develop prostate cancer compared to those who ejaculated less frequently. For men aged 40 to 49, the risk reduction was even higher at 22%.

While more research is needed, these findings suggest that frequent ejaculation may help clear the prostate of cancer-causing agents. Whether through sex or masturbation, more frequent ejaculations could be beneficial, showcasing another health benefit of sex.

3. Benefits of Sex: Makes You Enjoy Your Job More

A healthy sex life can also make you happier at work. A study published in the Journal of Management found that people who had sex the night before work were more likely to feel happy and engaged at their job the next day. This “morning buzz” could be due to the release of feel-good chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine during sex, which boost your mood and energy levels. These mood-boosting benefits of sex can positively impact your work performance.

4. Sex Improves Erectile Function

Regular sexual activity is another one of the key benefits of sex, helping maintain your sexual health. According to a study published in the American Journal of Medicine, men who had sex at least once a week were less likely to develop erectile dysfunction (ED) than those who had sex less frequently. An erection increases blood flow and oxygen to the penis, which helps prevent scar tissue from forming and maintains erectile function.

5. Sex Helps You Sleep Better

After sex, many people find it easier to fall asleep. This is another of the benefits of sex due to the release of a combination of hormones, including oxytocin, prolactin, and melatonin. Oxytocin reduces stress, prolactin makes you feel relaxed and sleepy, and melatonin signals to your body that it’s time to rest. Together, these hormones can help you drift off to sleep quickly.

6. Sex Burns Calories

While it might not replace a gym session, sex is a physical activity that can burn calories. A study from the University of Montreal found that men burn an average of 100 calories during a 25-minute sexual session. The intensity of sex can vary, but it typically falls between walking and jogging in terms of exertion. So, the longer the session, the more calories you burn! This calorie-burning effect is just one of the physical benefits of sex.

7. Cardio Benefits of Sex- Sex Protects Your Heart

Engaging in sex regularly can also be good for your heart. Research shows that men who have sex two to three times a week have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease than those who have sex less frequently. Sex provides physical activity that benefits heart health and reduces stress levels, which can also protect your heart. These heart-protective benefits of sex highlight its importance for overall cardiovascular health.

However, if you have a history of heart problems, it’s important to talk to your doctor before engaging in sexual activity, especially if you’re on medication or have been advised to limit physical exertion.

8. Sex Boosts Your Immune System

Having sex regularly might even boost your immune system, showcasing another one of the benefits of sex. A study published in Psychological Reports found that college students who had sex once or more per week had higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in their saliva. IgA is an antibody that plays a crucial role in the immune function of mucous membranes, helping your body fight off infections.

9. Benefits of Sex: Relieves Headaches

If you suffer from headaches, sex might provide some relief. A 2013 German study found that the endorphins released during orgasm can act as natural pain relievers. These neurotransmitters can reduce the perception of pain and may help alleviate headache symptoms. This is yet another one of the unexpected benefits of sex.

10. Sex Strengthens Your Relationship

Sex is an important part of a healthy relationship, but you don’t need to be intimate every day to stay happy. According to a study from the University of Toronto-Mississauga, couples who have sex once a week are just as happy as those who do it more often. Additionally, the positive feelings from sex can last up to 48 hours, strengthening the bond between partners long after the act is over. This relationship-boosting effect is one of the emotional benefits of sex.

Conclusion

The benefits of sex go beyond pleasure and intimacy. From reducing stress to improving heart health and boosting immunity, it can play a significant role in enhancing your overall well-being. Remember, it’s important to maintain a healthy and active sex life that aligns with your personal comfort and health conditions. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or underlying health issues.