Is Sex Good for Your Health?

We often associate sex purely with pleasure but there are lesser-known benefits associated with getting intimate with a partner which are, in fact, benefits to our health. 

It’s a scientific fact that a healthy sex life can contribute to both physical and mental well-being, not to mention sexual wellness. If you need to understand why you should be having more sex, keep reading to find out the key benefits sex can have to your health.

Understanding Sexual Wellness.

Sexual wellness can be confusing. It can range anywhere from regular STI checks to shopping for the next high-tech, all-singing, all-dancing sex toy. We like to think of it as feeling positive and healthy about sex, physically and mentally, and having the freedom to approach your body’s desires and needs in your own personal way.  

What Benefits Does Sex Have to Our Physical Health?

When done right, and practiced in a safe, consensual way, sex is meant to feel good and comes with a huge range of benefits for our physical and mental health, including:

• Raising the Heart Rate.

We all know that exercise is good for the heart and body as it raises the heart rate, but did you know that regular sex can also be classed as a form of exercise, by the way, it gets your blood pumping and improves circulation. Sex can improve the cardiovascular system by helping to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

• Lowering Stress Levels.

When we get intimate with a partner, it can release mood-boosting hormones called endorphins. Endorphins are known to calm our nervous system and improve overall mood and are released at rapid rates during intimacy, helping us feel more relaxed and stress-free post-sex.

• Improving Sleep.

Another hormone released during sex, particularly after reaching climax, is prolactin. Prolactin creates a relaxing effect, which is often why many people feel sleepy after sex. After orgasm, prolactin can help you to feel relaxed, fall asleep faster and enjoy a deeper and more peaceful night’s sleep.

• Providing Pain Relief.

Research from the State University of New Jersey has found that reaching orgasm during sex is the point where your muscles relax the most compared to any other form of exercise or wellness, which can help to reduce any tension and pain felt throughout the day. They also found that reaching orgasm can release a hormone which heightens your tolerance to pain, basically acting as a natural pain reliever.

• Improving Cognitive Function.

Regular sex can also have a positive impact on brain function. Studies have shown that sexual intimacy with a partner can improve cognitive function and enhance memory performance. Feeling connected to your partner in a relationship and sharing intimacy can also help to improve mood and overall happiness, helping reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• Boosting the Immune System.

A healthy and regular sex life is also known to boost your immunity to certain illnesses and infections. Studies have found that those who have sex regularly produce higher levels of Immunoglobulin A (IgA), an antibody that supports the body in fighting infections. Prioritising regular sex, alongside washing your hands, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep is a recipe to keep your health strong and stable. 

How to Safely Look After Your Health and Sexual Wellness.

Pleasure and enjoyment should be a priority when it comes to your sex life, but so also should safety. To get the most out of your sexual experiences, safety and security should be at the forefront, whether you’re having sex with a partner or solo. Here are a few important points to keep in mind:

• Keep yourself clean with warm water or a mild soap that won’t affect the PH balance of your vulva, anus, or penis.
• Keep your sex toys clean using a sex toy cleaner to prevent the risk of a UTI.
• Choose quality sex toys and products from our extensive range for every desire at Electric Love. Our phthalate-free sex toy designs are made with body-safe silicone and ABS for a comfortable and safe experience.
• Use protection such as condoms, birth control, the coil, and femidoms to protect against STIs and unwanted pregnancy. There are countless options to choose from when it comes to safe sex, speak to your GP for advice.
• Get tested regularly for STIs, especially if you have multiple partners or change partners frequently. You can do this by ordering an at-home test kit or making an appointment with your nearest sexual health clinic.
• If you are concerned about your health or sexual wellness, then book a check-up with your GP for support, guidance, and advice.

If You Need a Boost in the Bedroom for the Sake of Your Health, Visit Electric Love Today

Understanding your feelings around sex is vital. Knowing your boundaries, what makes you feel good, what causes anxiety or panic, and feeling able to communicate this is one of the most important factors of being intimate with a partner. 

Once you’re able to feel confident with someone else or if it’s solo play you’re interested in, then come and browse Electric Love’s extensive range of sex toys, lingerie, and sex essentials. We’ve got everything you need to boost your confidence and pleasure, as well as your sexual wellness.