People know about the feel-good benefits of the big O, but the aftereffects positively affect the mind and body. Peaking, climaxing, or having an orgasm by yourself or with a partner may be your new prescription for better health. In fact, many doctors agree that having regular orgasms is one of the best practices for self-care and stress management.
When the body releases hormones like oxytocin, it’s much easier to manage a hectic schedule. Oxytocin is a bonding hormone that helps to combat cortisol, the stress hormone, which can make you feel tired, stressed, or even old. This hormone also belongs to myriad physiological functions in the body, especially during sexual activity. Not only does it aid with social bonding and maternal behavior, but it also contributes to healthy penile erection and uterine contraction.
How do you release more oxytocin? Well, women release oxytocin during childbirth and breastfeeding, but you don’t have to get pregnant to release oxytocin. You can have an orgasm! Continue reading to learn about seven health benefits of having the big O!
You May Live Longer
Is this the ultimate benefit to climaxing? A 10-year study in South Wales examined the relationship between orgasm frequency and mortality in middle-aged men. The organizers of the study asked the men about their physical health in addition to the frequency of orgasms. At the end of the study, participants who had two or more orgasms per week had a 50% lower mortality risk than those who climaxed less often. There are other studies that indicate female longevity as a result of climaxing regularly.
Women May Improve Menstrual Cycles
Many studies found that women who are not as sexually active have shorter menstrual cycles. This is a potential indicator of low progesterone with estrogen dominance, creating weight loss resistance and frequent mood swings. Other studies concluded that sexually active women are more likely to have normal, healthy menstrual cycles. If irregular cycles stem from low sex drive, orgasms may not positively affect the cycle.
Better Body Connection
When you have an orgasm, especially by yourself, it’s easy to build a healthier connection with your body. Giving yourself permission to touch your genitals is an opportunity to connect with the body. You can also spot any changes on your genitals, making you more aware of genital health. When you experience an orgasm, you establish more comfort with your body. This can help you with partners, or even when you receive a pelvic exam or physical.
You May Improve Sleep
Many people find that regular orgasms promote better sleep, making them a great addition to bedtime routines. When your body climaxes, a series of hormones circulate in your system and induce a similar effect to progressive muscle relaxation. This is a technique that involves tightly clenching muscle groups and then releasing them, and relieving tension may be one of the best ways to improve sleep. The release of oxytocin also helps reduce stress, making it easier to catch more zzz’s. Orgasms also release vasopressin, which accompanies the release or melatonin.
You May Improve Circulation
The majority of people sit for up to eight hours a day, especially those who are in an office setting. In addition to muscle imbalance, a sedentary lifestyle can decrease pelvic circulation. One way to increase circulation to the pelvic area is through regular orgasms, which work to distribute nutrients and hormones where the body needs them. You can also perform other exercises to help promote circulation to the pelvic area. Some of these include squats, taking standing breaks, or even hula hooping.
Better Immune Function
According to a meta-analysis of over 300 studies over a 30-year period, chronic stress impairs immune function. Reduced immune function means that you’re more prone to bouts of colds and flu. Orgasms release feel-good hormones that help counteract stress hormones, which contributes to better immune function.
You’ll Improve Your Mood
Well, anyone who has experienced an orgasm knows that you feel happier after. It’s nice to have scientific data to back up why this happens, though. One study monitored the mood, sexuality, and menstrual cycle of 4,000 women. The researchers found a strong connection between sexual interest and better well-being. Women with higher sense of well-being had a stronger sex drive and better quality of life.
A friendly reminder that you do not need a partner to reap the benefits of an orgasm. That is all.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
