If you ask someone why they have sex, they'll most likely say it's for fun. And while this is certainly a good reason for a good romp between the sheets, sex has other physiological effects on the body. And yes, there are people who do research on sex for a living. Two of the most famous sexologists are William Masters and Virginia Johnson. They studied what they called the cycle of sexual reaction - excitement, rush, orgasm and dissolution.
Although each of these phases looks different for each individual (and sometimes even each sexual encounter), sex has about the same effect on everyone. So if you really need another reason to have sex or you're just curious about what's really going on in your brain and the rest of your body, just read on.
Here are 5 great ways sex benefits our bodies
sex can help to relieve pain and stress
The chemicals released by the brain during sexual intercourse can help relieve pain and reduce stress levels. A 2010 study found that rats that were sexually more active were less anxious because sex stimulated cell growth in the hippocampus, an area of the brain associated with anxiety regulation.
While there is no one-to-one correlation between rats and humans, there is much evidence to suggest that this also applies to humans. The endorphins released during sex act as natural painkillers. Experts recommend practicing or masturbating sex to alleviate menstrual problems.
sex helps you connect with your partner
When you have an orgasm, your body releases oxytocin, a chemical that is responsible for the warm feelings and bliss after the orgasm. Oxytocin is also essential for creating a strong bond between sexual partners. Researchers found that a couple who have an orgasm together are more likely to stay together. Just make sure you don't commit to a partner who is incompatible. Oxytocin does not distinguish between true love and a one-night stand.
sex brings your body in high activity
You already know that sex is exciting. But also the brain and the body know and show it. Sex causes an increase in heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory rate. The blood is directed to the penis, vagina and nipples, making them hypersensitive to sensory contact. The rest of the skin can also be more sensitive to touch, and pupils often dilate. When the peak is reached, muscle tensions also reach their peak. Some orgasms also lead to a gripping muscular reflex of the hands and feet.
sex improves your heart and your immune system
Because the body and especially the heart works harder during sexual intercourse than it would be at rest, sex builds up the endurance of the heart. When the heart rate rises from about 70 beats per minute to 150, the heart is trained properly. Studies have shown that sex is not only good for the heart, but can also strengthen the immune system. For example, a St. Joseph's University study found that students who had sex twice a week had a higher immunoglobulin A (IgA), which is one of the body's first immune responses to cold viruses.
sex can be a pretty decent workout
All sexual activities can help burn excess calories and strengthen some important muscle groups. Depending on the length and intensity of the sex session, between 85 and 250 calories can be burned. It is certainly not enough to replace daily exercise. But every little bit helps to stay active and keep the heart healthy. When a couple is adventurous enough, some challenging positions can even help to strengthen and shape abdominal muscles, thighs and arms.