Health Benefits of Having Sex

Improve Sleep

Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / THEM TOO

The hormone oxytocin increases when you have sex, and the heightened level helps you sleep better. Getting enough sleep is an important part of your overall health, so if you're having trouble sleeping, sex is the perfect activity before hitting the hay.

1 / 7

Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease

Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sisilia Piring
Product Credit: On him: Citizens of Humanity khaki chino, Vince white t-shirt On her: Jenni Kayne top and shorts, Vans espadrilles lace ups, Gabriela Artigas cuff, Iconery 3 stackable rings, 1 necklace

Research has shown that men who have sex two or more times a week cut their risk of developing heart disease (and stroke) in half.

2 / 7

Relieve Stress

Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Grace Hitchcock

Do yourself a favor and get busy to reduce your blood pressure. The feel-good endorphins released during sex will help you forget about your bad day too.

3 / 7

Boost Immunity

Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sisilia Piring
Product Credit: On him: Citizens of humanity khaki chino, Vince white t-shirt, Vince navy bomber jacket, Vans slip ons On her: Pari Desai knit top and skirt, Adidas shoes, Gabriela Artigas gold ring, 2bandits square shape ring

People who have sex once or twice a week have 30 percent higher levels of the antibody immunoglobulin A, which boosts the immune system and helps fight infections like colds and the flu. Getting down and dirty is just another way to help keep your lover healthy.

4 / 7

Strengthen Pelvic Floor Muscles

Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sisilia Piring
Product Credit: On her: Equipment top, Tory Burch skirt, Iconery bangles On him: Vince white T-shirt, Citizens of Humanity jeans

Who says you need to be wearing a sports bra to work your core? Exercises that strengthen your pelvic floor can be done sitting at your desk and even during sex. Whether you know it or not, you're performing Kegels while having sex, which also helps to increase pleasure. Bonus: a toned pelvic floor improves your bladder control.

5 / 7

Relieve Congestion

Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / THEM TOO

Sex for seasonal allergies? Sure beats Benadryl. Having an orgasm temporarily clears up sinuses.

6 / 7

Live Longer

Image Source: ShopStyle Photography

Women who enjoy sex live longer than women who don't — an active sex life has been shown to make women feel two to eight years younger. A much better alternative to wrinkle creams!

7 / 7