When sexual abstinence is involuntary, some people may experience negative effects on their mental health.
Being regular sexual intercourse Socializing with another person can have some health benefits, such as your cardiovascular system. However, there is no right “amount” of sex, and abstinence is certainly not detrimental to our health.
A person’s ability to have sex naturally varies from time to time depending on age, fluctuations in sexual desire, and relationship status. Many people live full and fulfilling lives without ever having sex.
Effects on the body
If someone has not had sex for months or years, it is unlikely that they will experience any negative physical effects on their health.
However, research shows that regular sex can have some health benefits, including:
- improved immune system function
- decreased blood pressure
- lower stress levels
- reducing the risk of cardiovascular events
Certain benefits, such as stress reduction, can also be derived from masturbation by some people.
In men, prostate health can benefit from frequent ejaculation, whether with another person or alone. A 2018 meta-analysis It found that ejaculating two to four times a week was associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer.
For women, frequent sexual activity—whether with a partner or alone—can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder. This can improve bladder function and reduce incontinence and leakage.
Effects on mental health
Recently to learn In a study of 17,744 people in the United States, 15.2% of men and 26.7% of women said they had not had a partner for one year, and 8.7% of men and 17.5% of women had not had a sexual partner for five years. year or more; The authors of the study came to this conclusion Sexually inactive Americans reported similar levels of happiness to those who were sexually active.
A study 2020 Confirmed information about sexual behavior during quarantine due to COVID-19 regular sex is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety. Other studies show that sexual activity can also boost mood and improve general well-being. While this may be true for some people, it is not true for all.
When sexual abstinence is involuntary, some people may experience negative effects on their mental health. For example, for people in a relationship, avoiding sex can increase feelings of depression, anxiety, and insecurity. Conversely, people who do not feel sexual desire may not feel negative emotions when they are away for a long time.
For others, abstinence from sex is essential to positive mental health. People can avoid sex for many reasons, such as having low sex drive, being asexual, or simply choosing not to engage in it.
Depending on the individual and the situation, possible benefits of abstinence include:
- no risk of sexually transmitted infections (STDs).
- an “additional” source of stress is avoided
- you take time to deal with the negative feelings that sex causes you
- according to one’s religious beliefs
People who are concerned about low sex drive or the effect of infrequent sex on their relationships can discuss their concerns and issues with a psychotherapist. Therapy, medication, better communication in relationships, lifestyle changes, and many other strategies can help.