The role of sexual health in overall wellness
Sexual health is often an afterthought, but it affects much more than just your libido. It plays a key role in emotional regulation, cardiovascular health, and immune function. Read on to find out how sexual health affects your well-being and how you can take care of it naturally.
A cornerstone of wellness
Long considered a taboo subject, sexual health is now recognized as a fundamental aspect of personal fulfilment. But what exactly is it? Sexual health extends beyond intimate relationships to include physical and mental health. A happy sex life helps keep your hormones in balance, promotes psychological well-being, and supports the proper functioning of your nervous system.
Sexual activity causes the brain to release neurotransmitters and hormones that affect mood and stress levels. Dopamine provides a feeling of pleasure and satisfaction, while serotonin—nicknamed the feel-good hormone—acts as a natural antidepressant. Oxytocin, often called the love hormone, promotes emotional bonding and makes you feel closer to your partner. And the endorphins released after an orgasm act as natural painkillers and bring a deep sense of relaxation.
Another little-known fact about sex is that it affects your levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Chronic stress can lead to excess cortisol, which can weaken your immune system, disrupt your sleep, and increase inflammation. Sexual activity helps regulate cortisol levels, reducing the negative effects of stress on the body. Because sex activates the parasympathetic nervous system, it induces a state of deep relaxation and plays a key role in managing day-to-day stress.
So when you take care of your sexual health, you’re also taking care of your emotional and physical health for a better quality of life.
The health benefits of sex
Improves emotional regulation
Regular sexual activity stimulates the production of serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters essential for regulating mood. That’s how sex reduces stress, builds emotional resilience, and gives you a feeling of relaxation afterwards. Studies show that sexual activity also helps lower cortisol levels and reduce anxiety.
Strengthens the immune system
Did you know that sex can boost your body’s natural defences? Having sex on a regular basis increases the production of immunoglobulins, antibodies that protect against infection. It also helps strengthen your immune system indirectly, by improving your sleep and reducing stress.
Improves cardiovascular health
Arousal and orgasm promote blood flow and help keep blood pressure stable. A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology even suggests that regular sexual activity could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in both men and women.
Relieves pain naturally
Sex releases endorphins and oxytocin, which can relieve certain types of pain, including migraines and joint pain.
Improves sleep quality
After orgasm, the body releases prolactin and oxytocin, two hormones that help you fall asleep faster and get more restful sleep.
Makes you feel closer with your partner
Sex is not just about physical pleasure—it also strengthens emotional bonds. Increased levels of oxytocin during sex make people feel closer and promote healthier relationships.
Natural health products for a fulfilling sex life
Nature is full of ingredients that support libido and sexual wellness in a holistic way. Among them is maca, a superfood grown in the Andes that’s reputed to have aphrodisiac and energizing properties. As well as boosting mood and reducing the effects of stress, it helps increase sexual desire and improve physical stamina. Another one is horny goat weed, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine to support libido and improve erectile function. It’s also used to stimulate nerve sensitivity and intensify physical sensations in both men and women.
There are also more tailored solutions, specifically designed for men’s and women’s sexual health, that combine multiple plants or nutrients synergistically. For example, Enerex Botanicals offers Sensational, a supplement for women that combines aphrodisiac plants to stimulate desire and intensify sensations, and Satisfaction, a formula for men that addresses many common causes of male sexual dysfunction.
Recommended products
Pleasure-enhancing products
Besides supplements, there are many products available to enhance your sexual experiences and help you develop a more caring relationship with your body. Here are a few suggestions:
This hypoallergenic silicone device delivers targeted pulses of air to the erogenous zones. It works underwater and has seven intensity levels for a personalized experience.
This compact, powerful vibrator is rechargeable, easy to use, and even easier to take with you wherever you go.
These Kegel exercisers help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles to improve vaginal tone, intensify orgasms, and prevent bladder leaks.
This gel can be applied to the erogenous zones to stimulate blood flow and increase sensitivity during sex.
Featured products
Special thanks to Diane Perras, naturopath, for helping with this article.
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice or care. The effect of the products presented in this article may vary from person to person. Some products may be contraindicated for you if they interact with any medication you’re taking. If you’re under medical supervision for a health problem, please consult your health professional before including these products in your diet.