The Benefits of Sexual Health: Insights for Better Well Being
Betty believes that sexual health plays an integral role in our overall well-being and enhances our quality of life. It is about more than just pleasure; it encompasses physical, emotional, and mental wellness in relation to your sexuality. Let’s explore some key reasons why our sexual health matters, and some of the benefits that a healthy sex life brings.
The Perks of Pleasure
- Physical Exercise: Sex can be a fun way to get our heart pumping and blood flowing. It can help improve our cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk or heart disease
- Boosts your immune system: Studies show that folks who have sex 2+ times a week had more immunoglobulin in their systems. IgA is an antibody that lives in our mucosal tissue like our salivary glands and vaginal tissue. It can help fight off infection.
- Reduces stress and anxiety: Sex releases endorphins and oxytocin, hormones that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood
- Improves Sleep: The release of oxytocin and prolactin during sex can help you relax and fall asleep more easily. Not to mention that satiated and relaxed state we enter after the big O
- Enhances Intimacy and Connection: Sex can help strengthen emotional bonds and intimacy between partners, contributing to relationship satisfaction and mental well-being.
- Pain Relief: The endorphins and serotonin released during sex can act as natural pain relievers, helping alleviate headaches, menstrual cramps, and other types of pain
Holistic Approach
Being in touch with our sexuality empowers us to make informed decisions about our body and relationships, including the one you have with yourself. It goes well beyond the physical act since our mental health and sexual health are so interconnected. Getting to a place where we are comfortable with our sexuality, and feel emotionally safe to explore our preferences and pleasure is so worthwhile for our well-being.
It's important to incorporate regular check ups as part of our self care, to ensure that all of our parts are in good working order, including our biggest sex organ, the brain! We often feel embarrassed or ashamed when we aren’t able to respond as we used to, or if we need assistance in managing some of our symptoms. Open communication with our health care practitioners and partner(s) is crucial. There's really no need to suffer in silence. Sex may look and feel differently than it did when you were in your 20s, but there are so many resources and wonderful products available to help your sex life thrive.
Addressing Common Concerns
Erectile dysfunction
ED is a prevalent issue that can affect men of all ages. First we recommend that you consult with your health care provider about physiological reasons for erectile issues. There are various treatments available, and lifestyle changes can also make a significant difference in performance and health of your erection. There is also an extensive selection of toys and tools to give you a helping hand, including pumps, cock rings and hollow strap-ons.
Painful Sex
Pain during sex, also known as dyspareunia, can be caused by various factors, including physical conditions and psychological issues. Again, please consult with your health care provider and consider a referral to a pelvic floor therapist or urologist. There are products available to help ease your discomfort including the Ohnut, which buffers the depth of penetration. Lubricants, dilators and perhaps a positioning aid may also be of assistance. Listen to your body and know your limits.
Menopause
Menopause brings various changes, including vaginal dryness, hormone imbalances and decreased libido. Embracing these changes and using products designed to enhance comfort and pleasure can help maintain a fulfilling sex life during this stage. Water based lubes, arousal gels and the best selling Magic Wand will be your new best friend. For more information check out our blog, Menopause & Your Sex Life: What You Need to Know.