Sex is more than just about procreation. Talk of a sex therapist, and they will talk about so many ways in which sex can benefit the human mind and body, influence behavior, and reduce stress. The human body is incredible in so many ways, and sex can trigger physiologic changes, making you feel happy, fulfilled and relaxed.
The four unique phases
There are four unique phases in the whole process of having sex-
Desire-
The need (or want) to have sex. Think of this as your body’s way to prep for intimacyIntimacy refers to a close bond between loved ones. It can b... More. It is common for the heart rate to go up and experience what is known as skin flushing. There is increased production of nitric oxide in the body, which enhances blood supply. Women may experience vaginal dilation, also called tenting, where the vaginaThe vagina is a flexible and muscular reproductive organ in ... More gets ready for the penisThe penis is the most common reproductive and excretory orga... More.
Arousal-
This is when you indulge in foreplayIt is also called 'outercourse' and it happens before sexual... More, which can increase neurological activity and changes in the vagina. In fact, the vaginal walls even change color, although you may not see it. The muscles are tensed, the clitorisThe clitoris is the epitome of sexual arousal. It is the poi... More may feel more sensitive. This is when you can enjoy more of the feel-good emotion.
Orgasm-
It is common for both men and women not to experience an orgasmIt is a state of deepest sexual pleasure during which the bo... More, but sex can make you feel great anyway. If you get an orgasm, there are evident changes in your body, including elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure, and increased production of oxytocin.
Comedown-
This is the post orgasm phase when your body and mind cool down and go back to the “normal state”. During the comedown phase, you may feel relaxed and at ease, and a time where partners commonly like to cuddle or lay naked and just enjoy the post coitus moments. It is also an excellent time to communicate with each other about how to up your sex life by a notch.
The many benefits of sex
- Sex releases feel good chemicals called endorphins and happy hormones called dopamine, which can reduce cortisol and make you feel better. No wonder a round of sudden intimacy can make someone feel ecstatic, even though the outside world could be mundane. Oxytocin levels go higher when you orgasm.
- Sex can help you sleep better. Hormones called “prolactin” are known for inducing sleep and help in relaxing the body once you’ve orgasmed. Before you compare sex with masturbationStimulation of genital areas by rubbing, touching, fingering... More, remember that the levels of prolactin can rise to 400% after sex, which is nowhere close to orgasm.
- Sex enhances the production of immunoglobulin A. A Study from Wilkes University in Pennsylvania shows that college students who had sex every week had a higher level of immunoglobulin A, an antibody for fighting off diseases.
- Sex can reduce your risk of heart disease and hypertension. Available studies show that sex may reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. There is also some evidence that sex can boost cognitive function, especially in older couples.
- Sex is also an exercise. That’s right! You burn close to 100 calories every half an hour of awesome fun on the bed. While sex cannot replace a session at the gym, you can definitely get some exercise.
- Sex is great for reducing menstrual crampsThese menstrual cramps and pelvic pain are in the lower abdo... More. If you experience menstrual cramps, sex may help you with that. Numerous studies indicate that regular sex can help reduce the symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome.
Enjoy the intimate experience more often
If you don’t intend to get pregnant and want to make sex more of a joyful experience, consider using protection. Barrier methods, including male and female condoms, can take away the stress that couples often experience when having unprotected sex. You don’t have to worry about STIs or unwanted pregnancies when you are practicing safe sex. If you are using a female condom, you can insert it way before the actual intercourse – right from the stage of desire. That way, it doesn’t have to ruin your experience in the heat of the moment.
Sex is good for you – PeriodPeriods are commonly known as “mensuration”. This is the... More. The more often you indulge in intimacy, the happier you feel!