We all know that sex is pleasurable and provides intimacy, but beyond pleasure, there are other reasons why it is good for our health. Some of these reasons you may have already heard (like the fact that sex is good exercise), but there are others that may surprise you.

So let’s see 9 unexpected benefits of sex for your health:

1. It’s great exercise

Sex can also be a form of exercise, beyond a romantic moment. During it, your body burns about five calories a minute and activates many muscle groups throughout the body. This means that in addition to the joy of contact, you also get a little workout, increasing the heart rate and toning the muscles.

2. It strengthens the immune system

Sex can help the body strengthen its immune system. Studies show that people who have sex once or twice a week have more antibodies, which help protect the body from viruses and infections. This means that sex can boost your body’s natural defenses, making you more resistant to disease.

3. Orgasms act as natural pain relievers

Forget the painkillers, because orgasms act as natural pain relievers for the body. When you reach orgasm, your body releases endorphins, which relieve pain and block pain signals to the brain. Thus, you can feel relief from headaches or other physical discomforts, without the need for medication.

4. Lowers blood pressure

High blood pressure can cause serious health problems, such as heart attacks or strokes. However, sex can help lower systolic blood pressure, which is important for heart health and the prevention of cardiovascular disease.

5. It is good for vaginal health

Although sex can cause temporary discomfort or infections, such as UTIs or yeast infections, it is good for vaginal health in the long run. The vagina is self-cleaning and self-lubricating, and these functions are maintained through good blood circulation and healthy tissues, which is promoted through sex.

6. It relieves stress and anxiety

Sex is not only good for the body, but also for the mind. When you have an orgasm, oxytocin and dopamine are released in the brain, hormones that enhance the feeling of pleasure and relaxation. These hormones help reduce stress and anxiety levels, while also enhancing feelings of happiness and emotional connection with your partner.

7. Strengthens your pelvic floor

Many of us neglect pelvic floor exercises, but sex can act as a physical exercise for this area of ​​the body. The contractions caused during orgasm strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, helping to prevent incontinence, which affects many women at some point in their lives.

8. It’s good for the heart

Sex also has cardiovascular benefits. Research has shown that people who have sex at least twice a week are 50% less likely to die from heart disease than those who have sex less often. Thus, sex enhances the function of the heart and the health of the circulatory system.

9. More sex boosts libido

Frequency of sex is associated with desire for sex. The more often you have sex, the more you want. Regular intercourse boosts your libido, and makes sex even more enjoyable and satisfying, creating a positive cycle of desire and pleasure.

Sex, then, is not only a pleasant activity, but also a natural tool for improving your health. Whether it’s boosting your immunity or helping to relieve stress and pain, sex offers a number of benefits for your body and mind.