It’s a truth many women are familiar with by now. Sex has the potential to not only be extremely pleasurable, but also support our well-being. But what about the effects of sexlessness? We don’t know much about it, which is why today we’d like to dig deeper into that question.
While there are great stories about how regular sex lowers cortisol levels, improves sleep, reduces pain, and boosts immunity, I sometimes wonder about the effects of a break in our sex habits. You may be wondering about the otherwise dreaded “dry spell.”So it was refreshing to stumble. This so-so + good article Address the question: “What happens to your body when you stop having sex?”
Understand the effects of sexlessness
As a woman who received all of her pre-university education in Catholic schools, all kinds of sex-positive literature, podcasts, etc. were a beacon to me as I grew up. Although there was much to be thankful for about the Catholic school environment, lifting the veil of shame around certain acts, especially sexual acts, is a valuable personal process, and sexual health is not about illness or unexpected behavior. I was helped by the idea that it is not just about avoiding pregnancy. . We also recognize that sex should be an important and beneficial part of life.
Read about some of the most notable findings and insights from our team’s resident health and wellness experts, certified nurse midwives. Lauren Zielinski, MSN, CNM, for those looking to break through dry spells.
Blood pressure and stress levels may increase
In this case, what goes down should eventually come up, especially if sex doesn’t release endorphins on a regular basis. Fortunately, there are other positive ways to achieve similar results. Consider healthy, heart-stimulating exercise instead of between-the-sheets sessions.
If stress continues to bother you, consider Zielinski’s advice. Self-care defense mode. Consider eliminating one or two unimportant commitments or activities for him, marking “me time” on your calendar, and remembering that it’s okay to say no to things. Take time to relax and take care of yourself. ”
Menopausal people may have a hard vaginal canal
As if menopause wasn’t fun enough, now you have to worry about the condition of your vaginal canal.Certified obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Lucky Sekhon, Explained to Well+Good If you don’t have regular sex for a long period of time, the vaginal canal can become hard and “vaginal tissue can become thinner and more prone to tears.” [and] Bleeding during intercourse. ”
This statement is the same idea I heard on the phone last month. Dr. MacLean Alexiades The theme is future beauty and health trends. While she’s looking forward to great strides in her future when it comes to vaginal rejuvenation, she also stressed that the best way to maintain the vaginal lining is to have sex or masturbate regularly.
And since the myth that painful sex is totally normal is something you’d want to leave in the past, consider a natural lubricant if sex isn’t all that pleasant.
It may be difficult to turn on the power
Like many other things, the desire for sex generally follows the law of inertia. That is, people who are having sex will continue to want it, but people who are not having sex may no longer have the need. “For some people, the effect is that it becomes harder to get aroused, even if you want to,” says sexologist Dr. Carol Queen shared with Well+Good.
It may sound a little scary, but here’s the important takeaway from this little thing. 2014 survey was announced on Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality it is desire Because sex can affect quality Of sex. Staying in love and maintaining a longing for regular sex is very important to the overall experience.
Let’s talk (more) about sex
There are many reasons why we experience periods of drought, and they’re all quite normal. Some people never experience sexual arousal. But if you find yourself stuck in a rut you’d like to break out of, consider Zielinski’s guide. Increase sexual desire. (Expect some surprising ideas.) And consider her thoughts on when to try sex therapy or even meditate before sex.
This post was originally published on February 15, 2022 and has since been updated.