Sex is an important part of life. It is not only about reproduction but pleasure and intimacy. Sexual activity, intercourse and even masturbation have surprising health benefits. You can experience physical, intellectual, emotional, psychological and even social benefits if you have an active sex life. These are 7 health benefits of having regular sex.
1. Makes immune system stronger
People who have regular sex have more immunoglobin A (IgA) in their saliva compared to people who have irregular or infrequent sex. IgA is an antibody that helps in preventing illness and protects the body from human papillomavirus (HPV), a viral infection that affects the reproductive tract. Studies reveal that those who have sex one to two times a week are more immune to diseases than those who don't.
2. You get a better sleep
During an orgasm, your body releases oxytocin, which is also called the "love" or "intimacy" hormone, and endorphins. These hormones combine to act as a sedative. A better sleep contributes to a stronger immune system and a longer lifespan. You also feel more rested and therefore, have more energy during the day.
3. Improvement in women's bladder control
About 30% of women get affected by urinary incontinence. Having regular sex and the consequent orgasms work a woman's pelvic floor muscles and also strengthens and tones them. Orgasms activate the muscles women use during Kegel exercises. Stronger pelvic muscles means they run lesser risk of accidents and leakage of urine.
4. Lower risk of heart attack
Regular sex can lower the risk of heart attack. Sexual activity helps keep in check the levels of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. Heart diseases and osteoporosis can occur if there is an imbalance in these hormones. People who have sex at least 2 times a week are 50% less likely to die of heart attack.
5. Lessens Pain
Sexual stimulation helps in keeping pain away. It reduces the sensation of pain and increases pain threshold. Orgasms lead to release in hormones which block pain signals. Self stimulation through masturbation reduces menstrual cramps, pain caused due to arthritis and even headache. Thus, having regular sex can lessen bodily pain.
6. Relieves you of stress
Sex relieves stress. This is because hugging, emotional attachment, sexual intimacy or even touching release substances that make you "feel good" and promotes calmness and bonding. The reward and pleasure system of the brain gets stimulated as a result of sexual arousal. Closeness and intimacy help in relieving anxiety and boosting overall health.
Having regular sex has many benefits including emotional wellbeing as it releases hormones
7. Helps in burning calories
Regular sex burns around 108 calories per half hour. That seems enough to burn off about 3,570 calories which is a little more than the amount of calories in one pound-in 32-half hour sessions.
In addition to all of the above mentioned health benefits, regular sex also improves your longevity, boosts your brainpower, makes you look younger and improves intimacy and relationships. Go ahead and explore what makes you feel good during the intercourse and how it benefits your health. What else would you like to add to the list of health benefits of having regular sex?