7 Effects of Abstinence on Your Body
Sex is a natural and pleasurable human act that can benefit your health when done consensually. But do you know what happens to your body when you go without it? Here are some common side effects of not engaging in sexual activity for a while.
Increased Stress Levels
Sex can reduce stress and lower cortisol levels, benefiting your heart health. A study found that good sex has a protective effect on women’s hearts. Lack of sex may leave you feeling more agitated due to the absence of mood-boosting hormones like dopamine and oxytocin.
Decreased Libido
Long periods of abstinence may lead to a decrease in libido for both men and women. Masturbation can help maintain or increase libido levels during times of celibacy.
Dry Vaginal Wall and Weak Pelvic Floor
Contrary to the myth, the vagina doesn’t become tighter with abstinence; instead, the vaginal wall may become drier and the pelvic floor weaker, leading to vaginal atrophy. Pelvic floor exercises and pelvic floor trainers can help prevent this.
Delayed Lubrication Response
Prolonged abstinence may result in a delay in becoming fully lubricated during intercourse. Relaxation and proper stimulation can help overcome this delay.
Touch Deprivation
Abstinence from physical touch, whether sexual or non-sexual, can lead to touch starvation. This lack of human connection can impact emotional well-being and increase the risk of illness.
Weakened Immune System
Regular sexual activity is associated with better immunity, possibly due to reduced stress levels and improved sleep quality. Stronger immunity can help protect against illness.
Increased Risk of Erectile Dysfunction
Maintaining a regular sex life can lower the risk of erectile dysfunction in men. Sex releases feel-good chemicals in the brain, promoting overall well-being. Men who have infrequent sex are more likely to experience erectile issues.
Health Benefits of Sex
Sex offers numerous physical and emotional health benefits:
- Improved sleep
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Eased depression and feelings of isolation
- Boosted immune system
- Enhanced cardiovascular health
- Protection against prostate cancer (men)
- Increased self-confidence and body image
- Strengthened relationship bonds
Consensual sex can promote overall health and well-being. However, it’s important to practice safe sex to prevent sexually transmitted infections and urinary tract infections. Effective communication and enthusiastic consent are essential for a healthy sexual experience.
Sources:
- Brody, S. (2010). The Relative Health Benefits of Different Sexual Activities. Online Library.
- Thorpe, J.R. & Wylde, K. (2022). 9 Things That Happen To Your Body When You Don’t Have Sex For A While. Bustle.
- Mark, K.P. (2014). The impact of daily sexual desire and daily sexual desire discrepancy on the quality of the sexual experience in couples. Research Gate.
- Bleibel, B. & Nguyen, H. (2022). Vaginal Atrophy. NCBI.
- Levi, A. (2022). Haven’t Had Sex in a While? How Lack of Sex Can Affect Your Health. Health.
- Hesse, C. et al. (2021). Affection deprivation during the COVID-19 pandemic: A panel study. Sage Journals.
- Cleveland Clinic. (2022). 5 Benefits of a Healthy Sex Life.
- Koskimäki, J. et al. (2008). Regular Intercourse Protects Against Erectile Dysfunction: Tampere Aging Male Urologic Study. AMJ Med.
