#HealthBytes: What happens when you stop having sex
What's the story
A satisfying sex life results in overall emotional, physical, and mental well-being of couples. However, people often go slow in bed, for varying reasons. They might be busy, or don't have a partner, or just want some time off. Whatever be the reason, prolonged lack of sex has various (good and bad) effects on your health. Here are the details.
Mental health
You might suffer stress and anxiety
If you don't get to make love to your partner often enough, it is bound to impact your relationship, and make you feel less connected to them. This can increase anxiety and harm your ability to cope up with stress. Also, lack of sex means a reduced release of stress-reducing hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, thus affecting your ability to fight stress.
Immunity
It might damage your immune system
Regular sex keeps your immunity intact, thus boosting your ability to fight illness. Who doesn't want less frequent flu and colds, anyway? One study found out that participants who had sex at least once a week had greater levels of an antibody (immunoglobulin A) that is vital for the immune system. So, get more active under the sheets in order to stay healthy.
Vaginal health
It might badly impact your vaginal health
In the absence of regular vaginal intercourse, a woman might suffer tightening of vagina and thinning of vaginal tissues, which may further lead to injury or even bleeding down there. This is exactly why having sex frequently becomes important for post-menopausal women, as it can help reduce chances of issues like vaginal dryness and irritation.
Information
Sexual deprivation might also ruin your relationship
Plenty of studies indicate that couples who have sex more frequently are happier and more satisfied with their relationships. This is so because sex helps you connect emotionally with your partner and opens communication channels. So, make sure you get cozy from time to time.
Benefits
Good side: What are the benefits of not having sex
It would be unfair to infer that stopping sex only impacts the body in an unhealthy manner, as there can be some benefits too: When you stop having sex, your risk of getting an unwanted/early pregnancy or falling prey to Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) drops to zero. Also, in some cases, sexual abstinence might give both partners some space, ultimately improving their relationship.