Dr. Sunil - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Sunil

Is Sex Bad For You?

Also Known As: sexual intercourse, coitus, copulation


Grade

B+


Short answer

Having sex is not bad for you, but it's important to strike the right balance.

Grade

B+


Long answer

Studies show that having sex can be good for you heart health - although, like any exercise, it all depends on how vigorously you do it. Physical contact with your partner can also have a number of health benefits, helping to lower your heart rate and decrease blood pressure. Research shows that physical contact with a loved one can release endorphins in the brain - known as the body's 'feel good' chemical. In short, sex can be great for stress and depression, and provide you with a sense of wellbeing.

A study carried out in Pennsylvania found that people who had sex once or twice a week had higher levels of immunoglobulin - a powerful substance which can help fight off illness. In the research, it was found that people who had sex frequently had 30% more of the substance in their body compared to people who didn't have sex at all.

However, there could be an issue if one partner in a relationship doesn't want to have as much sex as the other. A good balance is important; sex shouldn't be the only activity you enjoy as a couple. Both partners will have to negotiate at some point and focus on other aspects of their relationship. If you are single, having frequent sex isn't bad for your health, but it could increase your chances of contracting a sexually transmitted disease. It's important to be safe! Constantly thinking about sex could lead to an unhealthy sex addiction - especially if you are unable to focus on your other responsibilities.


Possible short-term side effects

  • risk of std
  • sore genitals
  • drowsiness

Possible long-term side effects

  • sex addiction


Benefits

  • lowers blood pressure
  • lowers heart rate
  • fights stress
  • fights depression
  • fights illness



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-29-2015
Last updated: 12-10-2016

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-29-2015
Last updated: 12-10-2016




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