No two women experience libido fluctuation in the same way. While about 50% Indian women struggle with their libido and sexual desires, its importance is often overshadowed by societal stigma, lack of understanding and the direct link it has to a woman’s wellness.
Studies show that women who have a higher libido and who engage in safe, consensual sex regularly report being happier and more connected to their partners and themselves.
Apart from sexual satisfaction, having an interest in sex and engaging in intimate pleasure can lead to numerous health benefits, with the top 10 listed below:
1. REDUCED BLOOD PRESSURE
Stressful lifestyle and dietary choices can often lead to higher blood pressure. When the body releases hormones like endorphins and dopamine during intercourse, they promote relaxation in the body and reduce blood pressure for better health. Orgasms release feel-good chemicals, which further reduce blood pressure.
2. DEEP, UNDISTURBED SLEEP
Believe it or not, but sexual activity to is a form of exercise. By engaging in self-pleasure or sensual activity, you can increase your adrenaline levels and get tired with the constant movement. Apart from that, a hormone called prolactin is released during orgasms which can help you fall asleep faster.
3. IMMUNITY BOOSTER
When one has a high libido or engages in regular sexual activity, the body releases oxytocin in high amounts. This also triggers the production of antibodies like immunoglobulin A (IgA) which are essential in warding off infections and STIs. Oxytocin also has an anti-inflammatory response, leading to a positive effect on the immune system.
4. STRESS REDUCTION
Lifestyle, PCOS, menopause and other life stages can visibly increase a woman’s stress levels. When a woman’s sexual drive increases and she engages in stimulation, the dopamine levels rise, and the cortisol (the stress hormone) levels drop.
By engaging in intimate pleasure, women not only feel relaxed but get a sense of bonding with their partners or experience more confidence through self-pleasure.
5. PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISE
The pelvic floor is extremely important for controlling excretory processes, pregnancy and other functions. Through intercourse or kegels, these muscles get exercised and become stronger and healthier. One may experience lesser risks of organ prolapse, incontinence and other concerns with regular intercourse.
6. ENHANCED LIBIDO
Stigma and doubts around intimacy can play a role in lowering libido, but it is proven that regular sexual stimulation can improve your connection with sex, enhance arousal and help you feel euphoria better. Apart from sex, you can always try natural supplements with Fenugreek to boost your sexual appetite.
7. CALORIE BURN
If shedding extra calories is on your list, adding intercourse to your workout routine would be a great idea. The amount of rigorous movement and activity can burn up to 5 calories a minute. It may not be as much as an actual cardio routine, but when paired with the hormonal balance, it can promote feelings of happiness and relaxation.
8. IMPROVES NEUROLOGICAL FUNCTION
Oxytocin and testosterone are primarily known for their role in sexual development and drive. However, they also have ancillary functions like enhancing memory, cognitive health and mood regulation. Engaging in sexual activity can trigger hormonal release and in turn, promote the growth of new brain cells too.
9. HEART HEALTH
Sexual activity can be counted as moderate exercise, which lightly increases heart rate and promotes blood circulation. By regularly having orgasms and pleasure, it is reported that women have had reduced risk of hypertension and other cardiovascular concerns.
10. DEEPER CONNECTIONS
Intimacy and sexual activity can help couples reconnect, explore desires and build healthier emotional connections. By releasing oxytocin, engaging in sexual pleasure can promote bonding between couples and help them feel safer and happier with one another.
