Can Good Sex Boost Your Health?

Sexual health and overall well being go hand in hand. Just like there are tons of different factors that can impact your sex life, things like diet, exercise, and overall lifestyle can also have an impact on your sexual health. A fulfilling sex life goes beyond providing pleasure; it can have a massively positive impact on your physical, mental, and emotional state. Plus, understanding how sex and overall health are related can make it easier to communicate and navigate relationships. Let’s explore some of the major ways a good sex life could benefit overall health.

Before We Get Started...

Mental, physical and emotional health are complicated to say the least. Everyone’s wellness is informed by countless factors including their lifestyle, diet, exercise, personal history and genetics. So remember that these benefits (though backed by research) aren’t going to apply to everyone in the exact same way. Instead, we hope this breakdown helps inspire your own exploration with sex as it relates to your overall health and wellness. 

Physical Health Benefits

Immune System Boost

A healthy sex life has been linked to a stronger immune system. Specifically, research has shown that those who have sex once or twice a week have higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A (IgA) in their saliva. This bolsters the body’s immunity against illness and can help fight off common illnesses like colds and infections more effectively. Of course, frequent sex alone doesn’t guarantee your immune system will suddenly become superhuman. However, it’s still important to know how sex fits into the larger picture of immune support and health. 

Reduced Risk of Prostate Cancer

While it might seem surprising, research has shown that it’s possible for sex to reduce a person’s risk of developing prostate cancer. A 2016 Harvard study followed more than 30,000 men over the course of 20 years and found that those who ejaculated more than 20 times per month in their 20s and 40s reduced their risk of prostate cancer by about 20%. While studies differ on the exact age range where frequent ejaculation is most effective in lowering the risk of prostate cancer, various researchers have established this link. 

Pain Relief

Can sex act as a natural painkiller? The research says it’s possible! A study  measured a reduction in physical pain when participants viewed photos of their romantic partners or strangers they found attractive. Plus, the brain triggers the release of endorphins during sex, which are chemicals that promote a sense of well-being and can act as natural pain relievers. For those suffering from chronic pain conditions such as arthritis or migraines, it’s possible to experience temporary relief from these painful symptoms after sex. 

Better Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep might also be linked with great sex. After climax, the brain releases hormones like oxytocin and prolactin (which help you feel relaxed and satisfied), while cortisol levels decrease. Cortisol is responsible for helping you feel alert and excited. So, when levels of this hormone drop, it’s much easier to feel tired and sleepy. What’s great is that these benefits aren’t limited to partnered sex; masturbation before bed can also help you fall asleep. 

Mental Health Benefits

Stress Reduction

One of the best things about sex might just be the sense of satisfaction and relaxation that comes after climax. Sex triggers the brain to release hormones like oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins, which can help you feel happy, relaxed, and less stressed. Whether you’re playing it solo or having sex with a partner, climaxing can help you manage your stress levels (and have fun while doing it). 

Improved Mood

Did you know that a healthy sex life can boost mood? The release of endorphins and other hormones during sexual activity can create a sense of euphoria and contentment. Additionally, the intimacy and connection shared with a partner during sex can provide emotional support and contribute to overall mental well-being. Of course, everyone has a different relationship with mental health and an orgasm alone won’t fix things like depression or anxiety. However, it’s still good to understand how sex can help the brain produce more feel-good hormones. 

Enhanced Cognitive Function

Some research suggests that lower levels of sexual satisfaction in middle-aged men are associated with a higher risk of developing dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and cognitive decline. To be clear, these researchers did not find a magic number of sexual partners or climaxes a guy needs to have in order to reduce his risk of cognitive decline. Instead, the research emphasizes that how a person feels about their sex life can influence cognitive function. Findings like these emphasize just how important it is to prioritize sexual wellness throughout life. 

Emotional & Relationship Benefits

Strengthened Bond with Partner

Sex can be a powerful way to strengthen your emotional bond with your partner. The release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," during sex promotes feelings of closeness and attachment. This can lead to a deeper emotional connection and greater relationship satisfaction. Plus, the more you and your partner have sex, the more you learn about each other’s preferences and sexuality. 

Increased Self-Esteem

A satisfying sex life can boost self-esteem and body image. Not only can sex help you feel good about your own body, but the self-understanding that comes with being sexually active can give you more confidence in your sexuality overall. The feeling of being desired, pursued, and experiencing pleasure can do wonders for your sense of self-worth and confidence. In fact, one study found that older adults with active sex lives felt a higher sense of overall well being and enjoyment. 

Better Communication

Healthy sexual relationships often require vulnerable, open and honest communication about desires, boundaries and preferences. This level of communication can spill over into other areas of the relationship, fostering better overall communication and understanding between you and your partner. This is especially important considering how people and relationships evolve over time. The ability to communicate changing needs and preferences with your partner is a necessary skill that will help your sex life thrive as your relationship grows.  

Sex & Safety

Having Safer Sex

We can’t talk about health and sex without talking about safer sex practices. While all sex comes with some degree of risk, understanding ways to help keep you and your partner safe is crucial. Using protection like condoms and birth control can greatly reduce your risk of things like unwanted pregnancy, as well as STD / STI transmission. Regular sexual health check-ups and having open conversations about sexual history with your partners are also essential components of a healthy sex life.

Great sex is linked with fantastic benefits that can help your physical health, mental well-being, and relationships. By embracing and prioritizing your sexual health, you can enjoy a more fulfilling and balanced life. This knowledge isn’t just helpful for your own well-being; it can also help your partners too. Ultimately, the benefits of a better sex life extend far beyond the bedroom, contributing to a healthier, happier, and more connected life.