Both sex and mental health are thought to be taboo topics that people avoid talking about but society is slowly changing and opening up about them. There is a strong connection between the two as orgasms have both psychological and physical benefits. It is clear to see why we love them!
It turns out orgasms don’t just feel good, they can actually improve both our physical and mental health. Whether it’s in the embrace of your partner or with a vibrator in your hand and legs up in the air, our health benefits from all types of orgasms. So, when we say a good orgasm makes us feel sensational from head to toe, it really does.
Leah Spasova, a psychologist and sex expert at ‘Lifesexperts’ stated: “The benefits of having an orgasm seem to be endless – from improved self-esteem and relationship satisfaction, through better sleep, a boost for our immune system, feelings of happiness, motivation and drive for life. The power of pleasure and intimate satisfaction should not be disregarded by anyone.”
Due to the feel-good hormone’s oxytocin, dopamine and endorphins, which are released when you climax, symptoms of mental health are reduced and instead you are left with what we call ‘the afterglow’. These happy hormones are increased during sex and masturbation whilst the level of cortisol, your main stress hormone, is lower than usual. Due to the alteration of hormone levels, symptoms of anxiety and depression are reduced during this time. With life being more stressful than ever, it’s a great way to blow off steam and escape the stress of day-to-day life.
Spasova went on to say: “I would highly recommend engaging in intimate pleasure – be it solo or partnered – as a form of self-care. During intimacy, our brains also release natural painkillers, reduce stress and anxiety, boost our mood and self-esteem.”
Although sex and orgasms can improve your mental health it’s essential to understand, they can’t cure it. There are numerous benefits but you should never rely on them to fix your mental health issues; it is only a temporary solution. It is crucial that if you are mentally struggling you seek professional help or speak to friends and family. With that being said, it’s always worth trying out.
As well as helping with your moods, orgasms could be the answer if you are struggling with insomnia. The hormones released help you feel more relaxed, along with the chemical ‘prolactin’ which makes you sleepy. According to a recent study conducted by Doctor Michele Lastella, 60% of people who climaxed during sex before bed claimed they had an overall better sleep. So not only can it help you fall asleep fast but it can help the overall quality of your sleep too.
It’s clear that orgasms have a positive impact on our health but another reason to have them, specifically with a partner, is to bring you closer together and deepen your connection. It is crucial to have an intimate relationship with your partner, as not having an orgasm can affect your mood. This can potentially go on to cause arguments and problems between you and your partner. A 2014 study into ‘pillow talk’, showed that couples who orgasmed during sexual activity were more open with each other when communicating after. Having those deep conversations after sex could be the perfect time to get anything off your chest. It’s important to have your partner to lean on when you are struggling most.
With the ongoing Covid restrictions you may not be able to physically connect with your partner and casual hook-ups are currently off the table. However, this shouldn’t stop you from getting that after orgasm glow. You don’t have to get another person involved to experience the mental health benefits of an orgasm. Masturbation is another topic people avoid talking about, yet it is nothing to be ashamed of. No one should feel guilty for satisfying themselves, especially when it could lift your mood.
So, if you need a little mood booster there is no harm in indulging in a bit of pleasure.
Words by Codie Bullen
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