Why You Need To Have Sex More Often

There are many reasons to have sex more often, at least when it comes to quality sex in a supportive relationship. More frequent sexual activity is linked to physical benefits, such as lower blood pressure, emotional perks, such as reduced stress, and relationship benefits, such as greater intimacy and a lower divorce rate. While there is not a magic number when it comes to the ideal frequency of sex, the results of a few studies can suggest a ballpark.


Psychological Benefits




There are many emotional and psychological benefits from making love that is strongly linked with overall quality of life. Some of these include:


Happiness


According to a 2015 study conducted in China, more sex and better quality sex increases happiness (though unwanted sex lowers happiness).


Stress Relief





That many people deal with chronic stress is a given and has been cited as a reason why adults are having sex less often. This may be a double whammy, as sex may be considered a stress management technique.


Our bodies secrete cortisol and adrenaline (epinephrine) as part of the stress response. These hormones (the fight-or-flight response), can lead to fatigue, high blood pressure, and much more. Sex can reduce the level of these hormones, with effects that can last well into the next day.


Improved Mood





There are a number of chemicals our bodies release during sex that can affect how we feel. During sex, our brains release endorphins—"feel good" chemicals that can reduce irritability and feelings of depression.


Another hormone, oxytocin (the "hug drug"), is released with nipple stimulation and other sexual activity. Similar to the effect it has on nursing mothers (oxytocin is responsible for the "let down" reflex in breastfeeding), oxytocin can create a sense of calmness and contentedness.


Finally, orgasm leads to the release of yet another hormone, prolactin, that can aid in sleep.


Improved Self-Image


Sex can boost self-esteem and lower feelings of insecurity, leading to a more positive attitude.


Physical Benefits


It's fairly intuitive that sex would improve emotional health, but there are a number of physical benefits as well. Some of these include:


Improved Physical Fitness


Sex is a form of physical activity, and there are a number of studies linking exercise with better health. According to a statement from the American Heart Association, sexual activity is equivalent to moderate physical activities such as walking briskly or climbing two flights of stairs. The movements associated with sex can tighten and tone abdominal and pelvic muscles. For women, this improved muscle tone translates to better bladder control.


The 200 calories burned in 30 minutes of sex, combined with the reduction in food cravings associated with the chemicals released during sex, are beneficial as well.