https://www.medicalexpressclinic.co.uk/sexual-health-and-gum-clinic-londonSex is an important part of any relationship. Higher rates of sexual activity bring positive changes in the form of greater intimacy, lower blood pressure, reduced stress, and a lower divorce rate. When it comes to an ideal sex frequency, there are no one-size-fits-all rules.
However, in this guide, we intend to share insights from what experts believe and the latest research studies. So, before you decide to visit one of the private sexual health clinics in London like Medical Express Clinic for sexual advice, give this guide a quick read.
Why Is Sex Important in Relationships?
Sex can play an important role in boosting intimacy between couples. While sex is not always necessary, maintaining a healthy, fulfilling relationship demands intimacy once in a while.
The importance of sex may vary from one person to the other. Some may think that sex is vital, while this may not be the case for others. They may feel that other types of intimacy (outside of sex) are more important.
According to studies, having frequent sex can have a significant role in an individual’s well-being. It also has an impact on a person’s affection level for the partner. Couples that experience more affection are likely to have more frequent sex.
Benefits of Frequent Sex
Beyond individual benefits, frequent sex means a healthier relationship. During intercourse, oxytocin hormone is released into the blood, leaving the individuals with a sense of bonding, while improving their emotional intimacy.
In a monogamous relationship, sex helps increase one’s level of commitment and emotional bonding with the other person. Making love increases the chances of couples staying together ensuring a lower divorce rate.
Psychological Benefits of Sex
From the emotional and psychological points of view, making love has loads of benefits including:
- Better self-image: Sex helps boost self-esteem and decrease feelings of insecurity in an individual. A person who is sexually active feels more positive and has more confidence in themselves.
- Improved sense of happiness: According to a recent study, frequent sex increases happiness among couples.
- A greater sense of bonding: Good chemicals are released in the brain during sex, including endorphins. The hormone is linked to reduced irritability and feelings of depression. Oxytocin is another hormone that increases with sexual activity and nipple stimulation. This hormone is known to create a sense of contentment and calmness.
- Stress relief: Stress when becomes chronic can lead to less sex frequency. But sex can be an effective tool to manage one’s stress. It reduces the production of stress response hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine, with effects lasting till the next day.
- Better sleep quality: Orgasms lead to the release of prolactin that in turn, improves one’s quality of sleep.
Physical Benefits of Frequent Sex
There are a number of physical benefits of uninterrupted sex. Let us explore these:
- Improved fitness: There is no better exercise than sex. Sex is equivalent to some moderate physical activities such as brisk walking or climbing stairs. Body movement during intercourse can help tighten and tone muscles of the abdomen and pelvic regions. Improved muscles in women help improve bladder control.
- Boosted brain function: Various studies have confirmed that more frequent sex has a correlation with better cognitive function and new brain cell production.
- Improved immune function: Frequent sex has positive effects on the immune system, too. It even lowers one’s risk of catching a cold or flu.
- Lower levels of pain: The endorphins from sexual activity promote a sense of well-being and calmness in an individual. It also reduces the effects of migraine and back pain.
- Weight loss: Regular sexual activity for at least 30 minutes burns 200 calories on average. The rewarding chemicals are released in the brain during sex. These chemicals, then, subdue food cravings and promote weight loss.
- Better cardiac health: Intercourse has been linked with reduced systolic blood pressure. When blood pressure is elevated, it increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. Sexual activity contributes to dilated blood vessels, improving oxygen and nutrient delivery throughout the body, and reducing blood pressure in individuals.
- Other benefits: Being more sexually active has an impact on increased libido and vaginal lubrication. It also ensures lighter menstrual periods and less painful cramps during periods. Moreover, healthier teeth, improved smell, better digestion, and glowing skin are all due to the release of the DHEA hormone (which releases after orgasm).
Ideal Frequency for Sex
How often a couple should have sex is a common question. It has been found that overall well-being is linked to sexual frequency. Satisfaction in a relationship tends to improve from not indulging in sex at all up to having sex once a week.
Sex in a week is a fair way to maintain a spark in a relationship. Unfortunately, the busy lives that we lead, these days, may get in the way of having frequent sex.
How to Develop Intimacy Outside of Sex
It is possible to maintain a strong, healthy relationship between couples by exploring non-sexual ways. They can include:
- Cuddling during watching a movie
- Dancing
- Engaging in frequent hugs and kisses
- Spending time alone talking to each other
- Holding hands while walking together
Improving Sex in Your Relationship
The frequency of sex changes over time. And it is normal. If you are wondering whether it is possible for lovemaking to be as good as the first time, you are in luck. Sex can improve with time as your relationship matures. The fact is – it just needs a little more work.
There are various ways to improve your sex life. Consider weighing the non-sexual parts of your relationship.
Having sex frequently without bonding emotionally or improving communication is not likely to develop lasting improvements in a relationship. If you want your sex life to be better, consider managing stress and communicating with each other more.
To Conclude
Regular intercourse has an active role to play in a healthy relationship. According to research, one sexual encounter per week is beneficial for couples. The frequency of sexual activity tends to decrease with age, stress, and other factors like children, and the health of the individuals. If you are one of those who want to improve your sex life, consider communicating your needs and working out a plan together.
