Orgasms are fantastic, but did you know that they’re also great for your health? When it comes to orgasms, women fare better than men when it comes to the surprising ways that orgasms increase our overall health and wellbeing. Women are capable of having 11 types of orgasms, but no matter which type of orgasm you have, you’ll get benefits that range from a better immune system to a lively social life. Read on to discover the many ways that climaxing can keep you healthy!
It May Curb Your Appetite
You know that euphoric feeling you get after an orgasm? That’s the release of oxytocin, also called the love hormone. Oxytocin helps to reduce anxiety and depression by naturally lowering cortisol – a well known cause of weight gain (especially around the belly) and cravings for carbohydrates and sugary foods. Oxytocin can also encourage the desire for sexual pleasure, rather than pleasure from eating. To give you an idea of how powerful oxytocin is, in a study where mice were bred without the presence of oxytocin gene, the mice had an increased preference for the intake of carbohydrates!
It Will Boost Your Immune System
Want to keep the common cold away? Put away the Emergen-C and have sex! Numerous studies have shown that an orgasm can boost your immune system and increase immunoglobulins by 30%.
Orgasms Help You Sleep Better
We’ll try anything when it comes to getting a good night’s rest and an orgasm may just be the key! Vasopressin is a hormone that helps us naturally regulate our bodies’ circadian rhythm and after an orgasm this hormone spikes! Oxytocin not only lowers cortisol levels, it also helps to relax our bodies and create the overall sensation of drowsiness. When oxytocin and vasopressin are combined, they create the perfect environment for lulling us to bed.
If you or your partner typically drifts off to sleep after an orgasm – this is totally normal! Pat yourself on the back and snooze away with your babe for a job well done. Studies have shown that when your partner (or you) falls asleep after sex, this is a reflection of your partners desire for bonding and affection.
You May Live Longer
In a recent study conducted in South Wales, scientists spent 10 years studying the relationship between the regularity of orgasms and the mortality of middle-aged men. The men were asked questions pertaining to their overall health, and questions regarding the number of orgasms they had throughout this period. When the researchers followed up with the men after the 10 year mark, they discovered that the men who had 2 or more orgasms a week had a 50 percent lower mortality risk than the men who were experiencing fewer orgasms. Subsequent studies have also shown a favorable correlation between sex and life expectancy for women as well!
You’ll Have Higher Tolerance for Pain
Dr. Beverly Whipple, a sex educator, researcher, counselor, and co-author of The G Spot and Other Discoveries About Human Sexuality says that having an orgasm produces a pain blocking effect! After an orgasm you’ll be less sensitive to pain, but there’s just one small exception: “Women who eat a diet high in spicy foods don’t always get the pain-blocking benefit because the capsaicin found in chili peppers prevents it from occurring,” cautions Whipple.
Your Social Life May Improve
Oxytocin plays an important role in how we bond with others. An active, healthy sex life can promote feelings of trust and socializing.
Studies have also shown that individuals who have a robust sex life are generally happier. A study conducted in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research surveyed 4000 women and looked into factors such as their moods, menstrual cycles and sexuality. Researchers found a strong correlation between their overall wellbeing and their sexual interest! The women who had a higher sex drive consistently reported a healthy quality of life and sense of wellbeing.
You May Lose Weight
If you’ve ever wondered how many calories you can burn off between the sheets, you’ll be happy to hear that a healthy sex life can also help you keep your figure looking trim! A study published in the Journal Of Sex and Marital Therapy showed that men and women who engaged in regular sexual activity (whether with a partner or solo) tended to have smaller hip and waist measurements than individuals who did not engage in frequent sexual activity. Not only does a healthy sex keep your weight in check, it will also help you reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease!
