9 scientific reasons why regular sex is good for you

Sex isn’t all fun, games and for reproductive purposes only, scientists say there are plenty of incredible health benefits from having regular sex.

Below are 9 scientific reasons why regular sex with your partner is good for your health.

1. Sex reduces stress

If you’ve had a long day at work or you are simply feeling a little overwhelmed, then sex will help you relax and reduce your stress levels. During sex, our bodies produce dopamine, endorphins, and oxytocin which together help us to de-stress, increase our natural happiness levels and enhance desire.

2. Sex is a good form of exercise

When faced with the word workout, many will recoil in horror unless of course, that workout involves sex. Throughout sex, our bodies are continually experiencing physiological changes that are consistent with an exercise routine. (Joseph J. Pinzone, MD. CEO and medical director of Amai Wellness.)

Our breathing rates rise which in turn burns calories, which means that if you have sex just three times a week, you can burn around 7,500 calories a year - that’s the same as running 75 miles.

3. Sex helps your immune system

Researchers at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania found that students who stated they had sex at least twice a week had higher levels of particular antibodies than those who had no sex at all. During sex, antigens like immunoglobulin A are released which are proven to fight the common cold and even flu. Even more good news: the more frequently you engage in sex, the more antigens will be released and the healthier you will get.

4. Sex lowers your blood pressure

Even if it’s just a quickie, some forms of physical contact can improve your blood pressure significantly. A study conducted by the University of Paisley found that sex reduces diastolic blood pressure - which is the bottom number of a blood pressure reading - making us healthier all around.

5. Sex helps pain relief

If you are experiencing aches, pains or migraines, then sex may be a better form of pain relief than pills. Arthritis specialist, Dr. George Erlich, conducted a study on his patients and found that those who had sex often experienced significantly less pain than their counterparts who went without.

6. Sex ensures regular periods

If your periods are a bit erratic, it could be down to a stressful lifestyle. As mentioned previously, sex reduces stress and so will also have an impact on your menstrual cycle.

7. Sex creates powerful pelvic muscles

As well as quads, back and core muscles, sex also works out your pelvic muscles. Is there a better way of building muscle? I don’t think so!

By creating stronger pelvic muscles, you also benefit by having better orgasms according to the National Health Service (NHS):

8. Sex reduces the risk of cancer

Particularly for men, regular sex reduces the chances of developing cancer. In an Australian study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, it was found that men who ejaculated at least 21 times a month were much less likely to suffer from prostate cancer.

9. Sex makes you sleep well

Like exercise, sex increases your heart rate which leads to relaxation and better sleep. (Sheenie Ambardar, MD. a psychiatrist in West Hollywood, California)