There are a number of physical, emotional, and psychological benefits of sex. It’s much more than just “for fun,” it’s also for your health!

Sex is a great way to stay active. Studies show that it can boost heart health, help ease pain, and even reduce stress.

Is there an amount of time that you have to have sex in order to maintain your health?

If you’re looking for a mental health benefit, sex can do it! If you’re ready to give it a try, fellow Dr. Kia-Rai Prewitt talks about the many benefits of sexual intimacy in this article.

Sex. Is it good for you?

Yes, there are many benefits to having a healthy sex life.

“We often think of sex as something that’s only for pleasure and reproduction,” says Dr. Prewitt. “But it can improve your mood and make you better in bed.”

Dr. Prewitt explains that you will only reap benefits from having sex if you have sex once a week or more often.

If you’re in a relationship, you can get the same results by making love with your partner. If you don’t have a partner, masturbating can help you to reach an orgasm.

“The idea that most adult women need to do this is not grounded in data,” Dr. Prewitt said. “You can learn about your body and what feels good or doesn’t.”

Some women struggle to come during sex. But we’re here to remind you that this is normal and there’s no need to fret.

“Just having a healthy sex life can boost self-esteem, self-confidence, and the ability to experience pleasure,” says Dr. Prewitt. “It also helps you bond with your partner.”

What are the benefits for women?

Sex is an effective way to work your pelvic muscles, which can help with bladder control.

“The more women have sex, the more it can help with vaginal lubrication, especially if you typically experience pain during sex.” Dr. Prewitt explains.

For many men, having an orgasm or ejaculating frequently has a lot of benefits.

Dr. Prewitt noted that it’s important to address the prostate regularly. “Studies have shown that it can help reduce their risk of prostate cancer,” he said. “And whether it’s with a partner or through masturbation, it doesn’t really matter.”

Benefits of sex

Sex can be one of the most giving and, during orgasm, one can feel a connection to their partner and even forget about their personal resentment, anxiety, or worries. It may also improve the individual’s mental health.

• Burns calories 

Sex is a good way to get some moderate exercise. You can burn about 150 calories an hour, according to research. But no need to chuck your gym membership.

“The American Heart Association recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity and 2 or more days of muscle-strengthening activities like lifting weights each week to maintain good health, states Dr. Prewitt.”

In Dr. Prewitt’s experience, sex has helped men’s muscles both strengthen and lengthen.

“It’s a creative act, even if it doesn’t seem possible,” she says. “Running a marathon can be surprisingly creative.”

• Sex can help to maintain heart health.

A study suggests that women who had frequent sex were less likely to experience a cardiovascular event later in life.

“Having sex can increase your endurance,” says Dr. Prewitt. “And if you’re doing it regularly, then you’re probably paying attention to your heart health too. You might be sleeping better because of all the hormones your body produces when you have sex. And no one is hungry for long periods of time or living on a strict diet after they have sex like many athletes might do before competing in an event.”

This study says that sex is good for your heart – but it’s not good at all times. It may increase the risk of cardiovascular events in men, but this contradicts a previous study.

Dr. Prewitt advises that “the risk of having a heart attack is elevated during physical activity for people experiencing heart disease symptoms, so it’s important for men to speak to their doctor about their risks of having a heart attack during sex.”

• Enhances your immune system

Individuals who have sex once or twice a week exhibit higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in their saliva. This antibody can help prevent illness and provides a defense against human papillomavirus (HPV).

“That can actually help you to fall asleep,” says Dr. Prewitt. “And if you’re getting enough sleep, or getting good sleep, that can also help boost your immune system because your body gets a chance to recuperate from the day.”

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• Sex  Reduces Pain

During sex, your body releases endorphins. It’s not just because they’re fun, but because they act as your body’s natural pain reliever.

Research shows that sex may also be helpful in alleviating migraines and headaches.

This type of lubricant can also help those who are uncomfortable during intercourse.

Regular sexual activity can actually help to build pelvic floor muscles and decrease pelvic pain, according to Dr. Prewitt.

• Sex alleviates stress

Under stress, your body will produce cortisol, a hormone that helps you respond to a stressful situation.

But studies show that those who are intimate with their partners experience lower stress levels than before.

Your body releases hormones during sex that may help relieve stress and combat adrenal fatigue.

“There are a lot of other ways people can experience joy or happiness, and many of them don’t involve getting sexual pleasure. Even still, relationships have an emotional component. Some couples who have experienced either physical or emotional intimacy issues may find that time alone together is beneficial for their mental well-being,” Dr. Prewitt says.

It’s important to practice safe sex by using a condom or other form of contraception. Doing so can help protect you from an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies.

Sexual intimacy is an important part of a romantic relationship. If it’s become uncomfortable for you, Dr. Prewitt recommends speaking with your primary care provider or a mental health specialist.

Whatever your sexuality, having a healthy relationship with your body and sex can help you on the journey to achieving full sexual satisfaction.

“Sexuality is normal, and a part of life,” reassures Dr. Prewitt. “Each person feels different about sex and their comfort level talking about it. I think what is important is that sexuality is just another part of being human.”

•  Improves Sleep

You may nod off more quickly after sex, and for good reason.

“After orgasm, the hormone prolactin is released, which is responsible for the feelings of relaxation and sleepiness” after sex, says Sheenie Ambardar, MD. She is a psychiatrist in West Hollywood, Calif.

•  Lowers Your Blood Pressure

Research suggests a link between sex and lower blood pressure, says Joseph J. Pinzone, MD. He is CEO and medical director of Amai Wellness.

“There have been many studies,” he says. “One landmark study found that sexual intercourse specifically (not masturbation) lowered systolic blood pressure.” That’s the first number on your blood pressure test.