This is exactly what happens to your body when you don't have sex in a while
While you have been told how beneficial regular sex is for the body, not much is said about what happens when you stop altogether.
Getting down and dirty is something that’s a natural aspect of any relationship between two people who enjoy sex.
This connection brings about a boost in immunity from the common cold, brings people together, de-stresses them after a long week and so much more.
But according to a study, 22 per cent of women and 16 per cent of men aged between 16 and 74 aren’t doing it.
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Not only are common folk not having sex, but celebrities aren’t either.
For example, Khloe Kardashian, Tulisa Contostavlos and the world’s hottest felon, are all practicing celibacy.
But what’s it doing to their minds and bodies?
Vaginal dryness can be an issue
Sex giveth, and sex taketh away.
So, despite your brain feeling more calm and at peace without a regular go about, your vagina might end up protesting.
According to Dr Narendra Pisal, a consultant gynaecologist at London Gynaecology: "The vaginal lining is dependent on oestrogen and with declining ovarian function and reduced levels of oestrogen, the vaginal glands stop producing mucus fluid and moistness. As a result, the vaginal lining becomes dryer and more delicate.”
He told boots: "Keeping an active sex life where possible is much more likely to help with a healthy vaginal mucosa.”
You might get random erections
“Spontaneous or nocturnal erections are completely normal, and they happen whether you’re sexually active or not,” Annabelle revealed. “They’re your body’s natural maintenance system, keeping blood flow healthy and tissue responsive.”
She added: “During celibacy, they can actually be a reassuring sign that everything’s functioning as it should. They’re not necessarily linked to sexual frustration or unmet desire; they’re just a physiological process, much like stretching your muscles after a long day.”
Emotional wellbeing will increase
According to Annabelle Knight, Lovehoney’s sex and relationships expert who spoke to the Metro, celibacy can give you peace of mind: “Celibacy can give you the space to reconnect with your body and your boundaries, and to understand what you actually want from intimacy.
“For many people, it’s a time of rediscovery — focusing on self-care, confidence, and pleasure in other forms, from solo exploration to emotional connection.
“Everyone’s needs and timelines are different, and periods of celibacy can be really positive for some people.”
Your sex drive changes
Just like what was said in the vaginal dryness section, your sex drive can change a lot in your life depending on your regularity.
Many people report wanting sex more often, the more they have it, and oddly, the opposite occurs for those who no longer have sex.
Annabelle said: “You might notice a lower libido if you’re not sexually active, or you may find your desire fluctuates in waves.
“For some people, periods of celibacy can actually bring greater awareness of what triggers or suppresses their desire, because they’re tuning into those emotional and physical cues more consciously.
“You could be celibate for years and still feel sudden surges of desire because your brain and body are wired to respond to stimulation, fantasy, and emotional cues.”
Your immune system can recover
It comes as no surprise that sharing fluids with another person is bound to have an impact on your immune system at some point.
According to Medical News Today, not having sex can lead to an improved immune system function, reduced blood pressure, lower stress levels, and a reduced risk of cardiovascular events.
Topics: Sex and Relationships, Health
Britt Jones