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Sexual Health
"When you're in the mood, it's a sure bet that the last thing on your mind is boosting your immune system or
maintaining a healthy weight. Yet good sex offers those health benefits and more. That's a surprise to many
people, says Joy Davidson, PhD, a New York psychologist and sex therapist. 'Of course, sex is everywhere in
the media,' she says. 'But the idea that we are vital, sexual creatures is still looked at in some cases with disgust
or in other cases a bit of embarrassment. So to really take a look at how our sexuality adds to our life and
enhances our life and our health, both physical and psychological, is eye-opening for many people.'
Sex does a body good in a number of ways, according to Davidson and other experts. The benefits aren't just
anecdotal or hearsay -- each of these health benefits of sex is backed by scientific scrutiny." *
Summary
"Take note that sex is good for you in ways you may never have imagined and that the health benefits extend
well beyond the bedroom." *
Of course sex is healthy, but did you know that a good sex life can provide specific health benefits? We
spoke to the experts to find out just how sex improves our health (not that you needed any convincing).
1. It May Make You Thinner
Dread working out? Dont break up with your treadmill just yet. But if its late and you havent made it to
the gym, dont forget that sex counts as exercise, too! Sex burns between 75 and 150 calories per halfhour, says Desmond Ebanks, MD, founder and medical director of Alternity Healthcare in West Hartford,
Connecticut. Its comparable to other physical activities, he says, like yoga (114 calories per half-hour),
dancing (129 calories per half-hour) or walking (153 calories per half-hour).
Bonus: Sex may also help your muscles stay lean in the process. Sexual arousal and orgasm releases the
hormone testosterone, which, among other things, is necessary to build and maintain bone and lean
muscle tissue, he adds.
2. It May Improve Your Heart Health
Youre probably already aware that heart disease is the number-one killer of women. Eating a healthy diet,
and keeping your cholesterol low and sodium in check are great ways to stay on top of heart health, but so
is having sex. Sex is exercise that raises heart rate and blood flow, says Dr. Ebanks. In a study
published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, researchers found that having sex twice
or more a week reduced the risk of fatal heart attack by half. While the study results were focused on
men, Dr. Ebanks suspects similar effects for women, too.
Let's state the obvious: Having sex is fun. But what might be less
obvious is that it's also good for you -- mentally and physically.
While it's something of a chicken or egg situation to determine the
direction of causality -- "Do healthier people tend to have more sex
or people who have more sex tend to be healthier?" says Jennifer
Bass, head of information services for the Kingsley Institute, there
are some studies that link better loving with better living. Read on
for the perks for getting busy.
A Happier Mood
Having sex
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Glowing Skin
Forget your morning swipe of
serums. With increased
the blood, a post-coital glow
complexion. But there are
too. An orgasm triggers a
hormones, like DHEA, that
smoking, and cortisol buildup,
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growing concern, make sure
your face will thank you.
Stress Relief
In
the
"In
2010, Brazil's health minister recommended sex (along with other traditional
forms of exercise) as a fix for the nation's high blood pressure problems, and
he wasn't completely off the mark. Researchers from Scotland have found that
people who were sexually active had lower blood pressure when engaged in
stress-inducing tasks, such as public speaking, with those only having sex in
last two weeks charting the lowest number.
part, it's the oxygenation of blood and the focusing of the mind away from
negative stressors," explains Britton. "Sex has that magical quality of
bringing
you into the moment, especially at orgasm, which is a period of time that
feels like animated suspension, where your mind and body both go off-grid."
More Zzz's
Don't
take it personal if your guy starts snoring shortly after some quality time
between the sheets. That intense relaxation you feel right after
climax due to an oxytocin rush can actually make you doze off
faster. Big meeting tomorrow? Include an evening romp on
your list of prep work for the night before.
A Self-Esteem Boost
Those after-sex smiles on both your faces are signs of a fun night and also a job well done. "I
think when people raise the potential of sexual expression, it boosts their self-esteem and gives
them a sense of being attractive, desirable, proficient, and confident," says Britton.
"And that carries over into all areas of life."
A Stronger Relationship
to
it
"Solo sex, or sex with someone who you're not in love with can
still be pleasurable, but neither fulfills the emotional needs to
the extent that sex with someone you care about can," says
Marta Meana, PhD, professor of psychology at the University
of Nevada, Las Vegas, and president of the Society for Sex
Therapy and Research. So while you're still getting the release
of oxytocin during masturbation, the pair-bonding aspect may
manifest itself more in feelings of generosity toward others
(e.g., baking your girlfriends cookies), rather than impulses to
settle down and start knitting baby booties.
also increases
that it uses as
want to finish
start you
I've recently collected another daunting pile of questions regarding the health benefits of sex.
Through the years of my career, and I imagine through the ages of all humanity, this has been a
resurfacing question. Typically I answer questions pertaining to the health benefits of sex on a
one-on-one basis, but since I know that there are many more men out there who are asking
themselves the same question I thought it admissible to address the topic here.
Many people simply enjoy a healthy sex life because sex is pleasurable. Now there's another
reason to stay under the sheets; there are substantial health benefits of sex.
Enjoying a rigorous romp can do wonders for everyone both physically and psychologically. Now,
men everywhere can tell their ladies that sex is not only for fun, but, since there are health
benefits of sex, their lives may depend on it.
The following are six different reasons why sex and sexual activity may help you live a longer,
happier life due to the health benefits of sex:
sex can cure headaches
All those times that you were told, "Not tonight honey, I have a headache," all you had to do was
inform your woman that one of the health benefits of sex is its ability to act as a pain reliever.
The hormone oxytocin (a nine amino acid peptide that is synthesized in hypothalamic neurons
and transported down axons of the posterior pituitary for secretion into blood) secretes within
your body whenever you engage in sexual activity.
Because of this secretion, endorphins (hormone-like chemicals that bear a close functional
resemblance to morphine) are released.
When a person is aroused or excited, oxytocin levels not only begin to increase, they are the
reason that orgasms come about. Studies have shown that a rise in oxytocin levels can relieve
pain; everything from headaches, cramps and overall body aches can be diminished with a
simple roll in the hay.
that lucky gal. A health benefit of sex, particularly a rigorous hour of sex, is that it may burn even
more than 300 calories depending on how rigorous you get.
fountain of youth
Although the orgasm is sometimes referred to as the "little death," having at least two orgasms a
week can increase your life span. Every time you reach orgasm, the hormone DHEA
(Dehydroepiandrosterone) increases in response to sexual excitement and ejaculation.
DHEA can boost your immune system, repair tissue, improve cognition, keep skin healthy, and
even work as an antidepressant. Therefore, a health benefit of sex if you keep the orgasms
coming, is potentially a longer life.
Men also produce estrogen and as they age, their estrogen levels increase while their
testosterone levels drop. This reversal often results in men becoming somewhat calmer as they
get on in years.
health benefits of sex galore
It's quite evident that there are many health benefits of sex. It increases brain power, heart rate,
it can help fend off diseases and ailments, and it makes individuals feel good about themselves.
In today's stressful society, it has become a little more difficult to engage in intimate sexuality as
often, but as long as you incessantly make the effort, you'll realize that it's always worth it.
The health benefits of sex will make you feel wonderful within and without and you will gradually
notice that the more sex you have, the more bounce you will have in each step. Happiness isn't
sex itself, but sex does ultimately play a role in human happiness.
Less
Stress
If you're freaking out about tomorrow's job interview, slip between the sheets.
Research from the University of the West of Scotland reveals that people who had intercourse at least once over
two weeks were better able to manage stressful situations such as public speaking, says study author and
psychology professor Stuart Brody, Ph.D.
That's because endorphins and oxytocin are released during sex, and these feel-good hormones activate pleasure
centers in the brain that create feelings of intimacy and relaxation and help stave off anxiety and depression,
says WH advisor Laura Berman, Ph.D., an assistant clinical professor of ob-gyn and psychiatry at the Feinberg
School of Medicine at Northwestern University and author of "It's Not Him, It's You!"
You don't have to climax to net the effects, but you'll get the biggest surge of soothing hormones if you have an
orgasm. Just one more reason to shoot for a stellar finish! Easy Ways to De-Stress Your Day
Sounder
Sleep
It's downright dreamy how an O can lull you to sleep. That's because the same endorphins that help you destress can also relax your mind and body, priming you for slumber, says Cindy M. Meston, Ph.D., director of the
Sexual Psychophysiology Laboratory at the University of Texas at Austin and coauthor of Why Women Have
Sex. Plus, during orgasm, the hormone prolactin is released.
"Prolactin levels are naturally higher when we sleep, which suggests a strong relationship between the two," she
says.
But if you're wild in the sack, take note: Highly active sex can make you feel more energized than sleepy. Sex
should never be a snooze, but if you want to use knocking boots as a sleep aid, skip the acrobatics and opt for a
subdued session.
Minimized Pain
Talk about flipping the script: "Yes, tonight, honeyI have a headache." The surge of hormones released after
an orgasm can help ease any annoying ache, whether it's a strained back or a head pounder, says Meston.
A study conducted at the Headache Clinic at Southern Illinois University found that half of female migraine
sufferers reported relief after climaxing.
"The endorphins that are released during an orgasm closely resemble morphine, and they effectively relieve
pain," says Meston.
Have a migraine but your man isn't around? Self-medicate by treating yourself with some solo sex. As long as
you hit your peak, masturbating will have the same soothing effect.
Fewer Colds
There's nothing sexy about sneezing, wheezing, or that runny-nose look. But getting hot and bothered can help
you avoid coming down with the sniffles.
People who have sex were found to have higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A (IgA),
according to researchers at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania. These antibodies help combat diseases and keep
the body safe from colds and flu. Save up your sick days and use them as sex days!
A Youthful Glow
Get busy to get gorgeous.
In a study conducted at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital in Scotland, a panel of judges viewed participants through
a one-way mirror and guessed their ages. Those who were enjoying lots of nooky with a steady partnerfour
times a week, on averagewere perceived to be seven to 12 years younger than their actual age.
Regular sex promotes the release of hormones, including testosterone and estrogen, which can keep the body
looking young and vital; estrogen has also been shown to promote soft skin and shiny hair, says Meston. Move
over, moisturizertime to turn back the clock with some shagging.
Introduction
"Having a baby is an amazing, life-changing experience. But no matter how in love you are with your little one,
caring for a newborn can take a serious toll on your sex life. To put it bluntly: 'Babies are sex killers,' says
psychiatrist Gail Saltz, MD, at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
Though getting back in the sexual swing of things can be tough, it's a necessary process that challenges most
couples, says Saltz, who specializes in sex therapy and is author of The Ripple Effect: How Better Sex Can Lead
to a Better Life. 'It's difficult, but doable,' she says, as long as you have reasonable expectations of yourself and
your body." *
Fatigue
"If fatigue is what's keeping you from getting your sex life back, the first thing to do is talk with your partner
about it, advises Saltz. Then do some creative problem solving. Saltz suggests asking your partner to watch the
baby so you can rest up and get into the mood. Also, aim for early morning sex, when you've both had a chance
to catch some ZZZ's.
Lean on your family or friends or a sitter so you can have some time without the baby. Or give it a shot when
Junior is napping. Of course, your baby might wake up at the worst possible moment -- while you're trying to
reignite those bedroom flames." *
during sex. 'Lubrication issues usually go away after you stop breastfeeding or after your period resumes,' says
Cleveland Clinic OB-GYN Elisa Ross, MD. Hormonal changes after childbirth might also be related to
postpartum depression, which can stymie sexual desire. These feelings of sadness, anxiety, irritability, or just
having the blues may last for a few weeks or even months. Talk to your doctor if you are having these feelings,
especially if they worsen or if you feel hopeless or sad most of the time." *
"Other big emotional hang-ups are usually from self-consciousness about your body and mental fatigue. Much
of these problems can be addressed through discussion with your partner. Relying on your mate's support
underscores to both of you that you're in this together.
Don't forget couples' counseling. Ross recommends that every couple proactively seek therapy at least once
after having a baby. It might help resolve smaller problems before they can snowball into something bigger." *
Scheduling Sex
"Although it varies from person to person, most sexual issues women experience after pregnancy get better
within the first year, according to experts at the Mayo Clinic. That first year with baby is physically intensive.
During this time, both partners need to accept they might not be having as much sex as they did before.
It's also realistic to think that you may not ever go back to the way it was pre-baby. For example, scheduling sex
might become the not-so-romantic norm for a while. But if the other option is missing out altogether because
your lives are too hectic, then it's a necessary strategy." *
Antidepressants
Antihistamines
Chemotherapy
Anti-HIV drugs
Finasteride
Synthetic progesterone-medroxyprogesterone
Changing to a different medication or different dosage may solve the problem. Other drugs may affect sex
drive, too. If your sex drive shifted into park soon after beginning a new medication, talk with your doctor.
Never stop taking a medication without consulting your doctor.
It doesn't seem fair. Many antidepressants can lower your sex drive -- and so does depression. But if your sex
drive has drooped, it might be a sign that you're depressed. Clinical depression is a serious, but treatable
condition.
Think back to some of your best sex. What was going on? Was it following great conversation or a relaxing
soak in a hot tub? Were you sharing your heart and soul with the one you loved? Were you on vacation with
your partner and in "letting-go" mode, shedding all the stress from home and work?
Teach your spouse how you want to be massaged by massaging him/her the same way.
If you really want to get serious, take a massage class along with your partner. Check at
community centers, hospitals, spas, and sports clubs for classes in your area.
2. A back scratch. You don't need long nails for this. This may sound silly, but when I can't sleep at night
because too much is going on in my head, I scratch my husband's back -- it relaxes me. And FYI, some men
really like to have their backs scratched.
3. A dance for two. When was the last time you slow-danced with your spouse? Was it Uncle Bob's 50th
birthday bash, or your best friend's wedding? Do you remember how nice that was to take a few minutes to hold
him or her close and just feel each other and the music? When you get the chance, try the power of touch
through the art of dance. Hint: It doesn't matter how great a dancer you are when there are only two of you in
the room!
Work Your Body
Regular exercise is not only good for the huffing-and-puffing aerobic aspect of sex, but it also helps you feel
better about your body. Even without any change in weight, the simple act of getting regular exercise helps
overweight or obese people feel better about their bodies, according to research I've seen over the years. Weston
agrees that if we feel better about our bodies -- as well as stronger and more energetic -- we're more likely to
want to get close to someone sexually.
But now we have more scientific proof that exercise is a powerful libido-booster. Results from a recent fiveyear study of menopausal women show that exercise can fight the decreasing sex drive often seen in midlife
women.
"Sexual satisfaction appears to increase with increasing frequency of exercise," explains Judith Gerber, PhD, a
researcher with the University of Vermont, Burlington.
In fact, exercise was the only one of the various factors the researchers measured (including financial and career
satisfaction, testosterone levels, etc.) that was linked to sexual function. They found the connection between
exercise and sexual satisfaction at the beginning and the end of the five-year study.