Jennifer Mullen, NTM
by jcomp</a> on Freepik
“Sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing about sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence “ (WHO, 2017)
Outer Glow
There are many ways a robust and satisfying sex life can increase health and longevity, with greater feelings of youth and wellbeing. Ever heard of the after sex “glow”? In the immediate, sex and orgasm increase blood flow through the body, which will carry oxygen to the face, causing blood vessels to dilate and creating a flushed look. This increase in oxygen will also help stimulate collagen production, benefitting overall skin health.1 Orgasm will raise estrogen levels as well,2 which has been shown to prevent the decrease of collagen, helping with the prevention of skin aging.1 Another way sex and orgasm can benefit skin health is by lowering stress and aiding in sleep. As most of us know, stress and bad sleep both affect skin health and appearance. High stress is associated with low levels of oxytocin (the feel good hormone) in the blood. Touch and connection, especially a satisfying sexual experience, will raise oxytocin, lower stress, aid in healthy sleep patterns and contribute to that “glow”.3,4 In addition to skin benefits, sex is also exercise and can burn up to 300 calories, and, with increased blood flow to the brain, enhance creativity and motivation.5
Wellbeing
Overall, sex, especially satisfying sex, is essential to wellbeing, it is a prerequisite for good general health,3 and the benefits of orgasm go beyond the superficial. By increasing antibody levels in the body, orgasm can be a boost to the immune system, reducing the chances of becoming sick.5 Satisfying sex has been shown to provide better sleep, which is imperative to overall long term health and better sleep also equals better sex. 4,5 History of frequent orgasm has been linked to lower risk of certain cancers, such as prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women,5 and has also been shown to help delay the development of heart disease and cognitive decline. 5,6 A happy and regular sex life has been linked to healthier pregnancies, as well as, in women, regulating monthly cycles, postponing natural menopause and correlates with better vaginal health.3 Additionally, sexual arousal and orgasm activates circulation through the body, 5,7 has anti-depressive effects with a direct correlation to mood and energy, has been shown to decrease pain and, most obviously, produces physical and psychological pleasure.5
Self Esteem and Happiness
Good and frequent sex lowers stress and and is shown to increase feelings of love, self confidence and overall happiness. 4,5,6 Sex, touch and connection all increase endorphin levels and release “feel good” hormones, oxytocin 2 and prolactin, which provide the feelings of love and sexual gratification after sex and orgasm 3. Touch and sexual activity also increases testosterone, which has been shown to enhance mood and decrease depression. This is particularly important for women, who have a higher degree of reported depression and lower natural testosterone levels. 2 Having a healthy sex life is also a boost to self esteem and body image, and, when both partners enjoy the sex, the relationship is more positive. This spills over into other relationships as well, and greater job satisfaction and personal relationships are reported with increased sexual activity.2 “Sexual wellbeing is considered one of the most important aspects of ones quality of life” 3 and clearly there is more to uncover on this topic. Follow along with this series for how to live your best, sexiest, life with nutrition and lifestyle tips as well as ways to stay healthy, vibrant and sexy as we age.
**To learn more about how to continue nutritional and lifestyle support to increase and maintain your sexual health throughout life you can reach me at jengmullen@gmail.com for a free consult.
Medical/Health Disclaimer: This blog provides information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images, and other material contained herein, for educational purposes only. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment by a doctor or other qualified medical professional. Always consult with your doctor or other qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before embarking on a new health care program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.
References:
1.Stevenson S, Thornton J. Effect of estrogens on skin aging and the potential role of SERMs. Clin Interv Aging. 2007;2(3):283-97. doi: 10.2147/cia.s798. PMID: 18044179; PMCID: PMC2685269.
2.Debrot, A., Meuwly, N., Muise, A., Impett, E. A., & Schoebi, D. (2017). More Than Just Sex: Affection Mediates the Association Between Sexual Activity and Well-Being. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 43(3), 287-299. https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167216684124
3. Gianotten, WL. The health benefits of sexual expression. In: Geuens S, Polona Mivšek A, Gianotten WL, eds. Midwifery and Sexuality. Springer International Publishing; 2023:41-48.
4.Socioaffect Neurosci Psychol. 2016;6:31815. doi:10.3402/snp.v6.31815 Rackal Y. Why doesn't sleep advice talk about sex? CMAJ. 2021;193(11):E384-E385. doi:10.1503/cmaj.1095926
5.Gianotten WL, Alley JC, Diamond LM. The health benefits of sexual expression. Int J Sex Health. 2021;33:478–93.
6.Liu H, Waite LJ, Shen S, Wang DH. Is Sex Good for Your Health? A National Study on Partnered Sexuality and Cardiovascular Risk among Older Men and Women. J Health Soc Behav. 2016 Sep;57(3):276-96. doi: 10.1177/0022146516661597. PMID: 27601406; PMCID: PMC5052677.
7.DeLozier, Christine, L.Ac. Diet for Great Sex: Food For Male and Female Sexual Health. Copyright 2020 by Christine DeLozier
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