Sex can boost your mood, improve self-esteem and enhance your relationship quality
But can it actually impact your health? Research suggests that having sex can lead to a number of potential health benefits, from improved mental health and sleep quality to a lower risk of heart disease and chronic pain.
Stronger Immune System
There’s some evidence that sexual activity and orgasms may help your body mount a stronger immune response. This mation more easily.
For example, a 2021 study found that people who had sex more than three times per month were less likely to contract a serious case of COVID-19 than participants who had sex less often. This may be because sex has been linked to increased concentrations of leukocytes (white blood cells) and immunoglobulin (antibodies), both of which help the body stave off disease.
Lower Blood Pressure
While the act of sex can temporarily increase your heart rate and blood pressure, it may lead to a lower risk of hypertension (high blood pressure) in the long run. Researchers believe this may happen because sex boosts endorphins–mood-boosting hormones that relieve pain and stress. One study found that women in long-term, sexually satisfying relationships had a significantly lower risk of uncontrolled hypertension, which suggests that the quality of sex plays a role.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Sex is associated with a number of positive effects on cardiovascular health, including a lower risk of heart attack, heart disease, and stroke as well as related conditions like type 2 diabetes.
It’s not entirely clear why having sex can improve heart health. Some researchers believe that the consistent release of “feel-good” hormones like endorphins and oxytocin play a role. Others argue that intercourse serves as a form of exercise, which promotes oxygen flow throughout the body and helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
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