What if the best medicine is not in the pharmacy? For a long time, talking about sex was taboo. Today, medicine recognizes that active sex life is not only a source of pleasure, but also a powerful ally for physical and mental health. Scientists and doctors point out that sexual act can act as a “natural anxiolytic”, improve immunity, strengthen the heart and even protect the brain against aging.
Gynecologist and sexologist Mariana Landim explains that “sex works as a mild to moderate exercise, capable of regulating blood pressure, increasing heart rate and improving circulation.” According to her, hormones released during the relationship still reduce pain such as cramps and headache, and improve mood and sleep quality.
A study by the University of Arizona School of Medicine showed that in mice with heart failure, sexual activity has improved heart function, reduced fluid accumulation and increased longevity by almost 25%, and altering gene expression and hormone levels, suggesting protective effects on cardiovascular health.
In the cognitive field, the University of Oxford, in partnership with the University of Coventry, found that adults over 50 with active sex life performed better in verbal fluency tests and visuospatial skills. The study, published in The Journals of Gerontology, It points out that sexual activity can stimulate brain executive functions, protecting against cognitive aging and promoting healthy aging.
Researchers at the Erasmus University Medical Center, Utrecht University Medical Center, and the University of Utah also highlight the short and long term effects of sexuality: mood improvement, stress reduction and strengthening of the immune system. The release of hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins acts as a “natural anxiolytic”, showing that sex is more than pleasure: an ally of physical and mental health.
Studies already prove that sex is good: by combining cardiovascular, cognitive and immunological benefits, regular sexual activity proves to be an essential component of well-being, reinforcing that sexuality is not only a matter of pleasure, but also an important pillar for a healthy and balanced life.
Welfare waterfall
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Orgasm, a height of the sense of pleasure in excitement during the relationship, is described by the gynecologist as a waterfall of physiological events in the body. She explains that this phenomenon occurs thanks to the release of pleasure hormones, decreased stress hormones, contractions and relaxation of the pelvic muscles and the organism as a whole.
For the expert, the frequency and quality of sexual relations must be aligned. “When the act is pleasant and satisfactory for both, the reward system – especially feminine – is activated, and the brain understands and seeks this pleasure more often,” he says. “On the other hand, the frequency without quality feeds a cycle of frustration that leads many couples to physical and emotional removal.”
All age groups benefit from sex. Mariana points out, however, that women perceive sexuality in a different way at different stages of life. “For example, menopause women have the” advantage “of their life experience over adolescents who are starting their understanding of their own body and the other; but sometimes climacteric women suffer the physical consequences of the period, requiring gynecological aid to maintain quality of life and comfort,” he adds.
Sex and Mental Health
According to psychiatrist Pedro Leopoldo de Araújo Ortiz, sex is much more than a biological act of reproduction. “It is a powerful resource for our mental health,” he argues.
He explains that during the relationship, “dopamine, serotonin and endorphins improve mood and reduce anxiety, while oxytocin – the hormone of love – strengthens affective bonds.” In the long run, it completes, “These processes help protect against depression, cognitive decline and even neurodegenerative diseases.”
A study by Wilkes University has shown that people who have sex or twice a week have 30% more immunoglobulin A (IgA), an essential antibody for defense against influenza and cold.
Ortiz points out that “sexual arousal and orgasm activate defense cells, while reducing chronic stress indirectly strengthens immunity.” He also points out that “even masturbation can bring benefits, as what matters is excitement and orgasm.”
Shame and repression still weigh on sexuality. Ortiz states that “silence over sex is not a void; it is a silent poison that corrupts body and mind.”
For the psychiatrist, speaking openly about sexuality is an act of care: “The word brings to light what has been hidden. When desire is named and shared, it is no longer a source of anguish and becomes life force.”
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Sex should not be seen just as a performance, but as a self -care feature. It acts on the body as a natural, free and affordable remedy. “More than a physical act, sex is an experience of bonding and well-being,” says Ortiz. If pleasure was already reason enough, science now confirms: sex is also an indispensable ally of health.
Sexologist and psychologist, Alessandra Araújo separated 5 tips to celebrate Sex Day, celebrated this Saturday (6/9). Check it out:
5 tips for celebrating sex day
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Reduces pleasure in detail: How about turning intimacy into a sensory adventure? Time to the prelude, exploring longer kisses, slow and provocative caresses. Use massage oils, different textures or even a light breath to rediscover your partner’s body (and your own!) With new attention to detail. The focus here is the journey of pleasure, not just fate.
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Create an intimate and sensual environment: Prepare the stage for the celebration. This may mean organizing a romantic dinner with candles, preparing a relaxing bath for two with foams and aromas, or simply tidying the room with softer sheets and smooth lighting. The idea is to create a space that invites delivery and relaxation, far from everyday distractions.
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Open communication and new desires: Sex Day is the perfect time to put the cards on the table. Talk to your partner about wishes that you may never have explored, saved costumes or even what they like best in each other. Sincere and without trial conversation can open doors to new experiences and strengthen the connection, transforming intimacy into something even more personalized and exciting.
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Try something negg together: Break the routine! This can be as simple as experiencing a new sexual position, using a new toy, exploring a different scenario (perhaps a more unusual corner of the house?) Or even plan a “thematic night.” The novelty injects a dose of adrenaline and fun in the relationship, reinforcing complicity and adventure to two.
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Focus on mutual pleasure and connection: Remember that the main objective is to celebrate the connection and pleasure of both. Focus on giving and receiving pleasure, being present at the moment and enjoying each other’s company. Sometimes the best gift is simply to connect intimately, showing care, attention and reaffirming the desire that one feels for the other. Shared pleasure is the true celebration.
Amanda S. Fazeza
Journalist graduated from UnB, with tickets for the DF Public Security Bureau, the Federal Institute of Brasilia (IFB) and the CW machine. Enthusiast in the areas of culture, education and social networks, integrates the CB-Online team.
Bianca Lucca
Reporter
Journalist at the University Center of Brasilia, in love with literature and social issues. He went through the culture editor and now writes for CB online, where he signs the blog of the one.
