Boost Heart Health and Longevity: The Surprising Benefits of More Sex

Monica Bell
May 1
4 min read

Sex is an important topic for us here at Optimal Hormone Health. Hormonal fluctuations through perimenopause and menopause can cause significant changes to sexual function for women. Men, too, can experience erectile dysfunction and lack of energy due to a decrease in testosterone. Many people assume that these hormonal fluctuations are a natural process that should be accepted. Still, restoring hormone levels can positively affect everything from libido, energy, bone density, and muscle mass.

Sexual activity between partners changes through time and, along with hormonal fluctuation,s can create unexpected challenges. We know that sexual activity, whether in a partnership or alone, is healthy. A recent study examines the relationship between frequency of sex and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among people aged 20-59. Let’s take a closer look at why sex is essential and the added cardiovascular benefits.

Older couple relaxing in bed together, smiling and leaning into each other while wearing white robes. The image conveys intimacy, emotional connection, and well-being in later life. — Sexual wellness and connection are key parts of long-term health and vitality.

Benefits of Sex for Heart Health

There are many benefits of having sex with a partner or through masturbation. However, sexual contact between two people can be complicated not only by a decrease in hormone production but also by expectations, past sexual history, relationship problems, and mismatched libido.

Stress Reduction

Sexual activity triggers the release of oxytocin and lowers cortisol, promoting relaxation and decreasing stress levels.

Enhances Mood

Sex and orgasms increase the hormones dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, all of which promote feelings of happiness and well-being.

Immune System Boost

Studies suggest that frequent sexual activity may be linked to higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), an antibody that helps fight off infections.

Pain Relief

Orgasms can naturally trigger pain-relieving mechanisms in the body by releasing endorphins, which can help with headaches, menstrual cramps, and joint pain.

Better Sleep

The release of hormones like prolactin and oxytocin after orgasm can promote relaxation and improve sleep.

Increased Connection

Engaging in sexual activity with a partner can deepen connection and foster feelings of closeness.

Improved Heart Health

Regular sex can improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and increasing heart rate.

Cognitive Function

Sexual activity has been associated with better memory and cognitive abilities in older adults.

Cardiovascular Disease and Sexual Frequency

The relationship between heart health and sexual activity is not new, but a recent study examines the frequency of sex and the impact on cardiovascular disease and mortality. Here is a summary of the findings:

There were consistent cardiovascular benefits associated with sexual frequency of 12-103 times a year.
A negative effect emerged for sexual activity that exceeded 103 times a year.
Decreased libido, inability to reach orgasm, and difficulties with sexual intercourse independently predict adverse cardiovascular events.
Maintaining or increasing sexual activity within the first six months after a heart attack is linked to a 35% reduction in mortality risk compared to those who abstain or reduce their sexual frequency.

Potential Causes Associated with Reduced Sexual Activity and CVD

There are several possible reasons underlying the association between sexual frequency and CVD. Here are a few:

People with low sexual frequency may have erectile dysfunction, which can be an early indicator of cardiovascular disease.
Low testosterone levels can result in elevated total cholesterol and blood sugar, contributing to atherosclerosis.
People with cardiovascular disease often take diuretics and beta blockers, which can affect sexual function.
Illnesses not related to sexual behavior can affect sexual frequency, such as chronic diseases, disabilities, and other poor health conditions.
Depression is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and cardiovascular disease can worsen depressive symptoms.
Excessive sexual frequency can have detrimental health consequences. The presence of sexual addiction or sexual hyperactivity can cause mental stress and depression.

How to Address Sexual Frequency

Now the hard part. What do you do if you feel that you need to increase your sexual frequency? There is no one answer to how to approach waning sexual desire and or ability to orgasm, but we have some suggestions.

Evaluate Hormone Levels

Hormone levels are inextricably linked to sexual desire and ability to orgasm. For women, declining testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone levels can lead to reduced libido, vaginal dryness, fatigue and difficulty reaching orgasms.

For men, declining testosterone levels cause reduced libido, muscle loss, and fatigue. High cortisol levels can suppress testosterone production, reducing sexual desire.

At Optimal Hormone Health, whether you are single or in a relationship, we can address hormone deficiencies and begin the process of individualized hormone replacement. Balancing hormones can be a key part to help maximize the benefits of sex for heart health.

Address Chronic Health Conditions

Chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and depression are the leading causes of disability and death in the US. It is never too late to begin exercise, change your diet, and manage your stress. Chances are it will also improve your sexual functioning!

Handle Relationship Problems

Conflict and challenges are a part of every relationship. However, if these problems are not addressed, they can lead to a decrease in sexual frequency and loss of connection. See a couples therapist to get back on track. If sexual mismatch is the problem, many therapists specialize in sex therapy.

Heart Health and Sex

Stately bluntly, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. To mitigate the risks of heart disease, we know that a plant-based diet, exercise, and control of high blood pressure and diabetes can improve heart health. Now, you can add sexual frequency to that list! Talk with us about a plan to restore libido with hormone replacement while embarking on a heart-healthier path forward.