According to Dr. Tra Anh Duy of the Men’s Health Center, sex is not only a vital part of emotional life but also influences men's physical and mental health. Maintaining a regular sex life offers numerous benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, a stronger immune system, and balanced hormone levels. Conversely, abstaining from sex for extended periods can lead to potential health issues, both physically and mentally.
Research published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine links sexual frequency to cardiovascular health and lifespan in men. Another study in Sleep Medicine Reviews indicates that interrupted sexual activity can affect sleep quality and mood.
Physical health impacts:
Erectile dysfunction:
Men who abstain from sex for a long time may face a higher risk of erectile dysfunction. The lack of regular sexual stimulation can reduce blood flow to the penis, affecting the ability to achieve an erection. A study in the International Journal of Impotence Research suggests that regular sexual activity can help maintain erectile function by improving blood circulation and nerve sensitivity in the penis.
Reduced semen quality:
Prolonged periods without ejaculation can decrease semen quality, impacting fertility. Research in Fertility and Sterility shows that infrequent ejaculation can reduce sperm motility and increase the number of abnormal sperm.
Increased risk of prostate cancer:
Some studies indicate a link between prolonged abstinence from ejaculation and an increased risk of prostate cancer. Research published in European Urology suggests that men who ejaculate more frequently have a lower risk of prostate cancer compared to those who are less sexually active.
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Dr. Duy examines a couple. Photo: Lam Anh |
Dr. Duy examines a couple. Photo: Lam Anh
Mental health impacts:
Increased stress and anxiety:
Sexual activity releases oxytocin and endorphins, which reduce stress and improve mood. Prolonged abstinence can lead to stress and anxiety issues. A study in Biological Psychology indicates that ejaculation through sexual activity can lower cortisol (the stress hormone).
Risk of depression:
Long-term sexual abstinence can decrease dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that regulate mood. This can increase the risk of depression in men. Research in the Journal of Affective Disorders shows that men with a healthy sex life often report higher happiness levels and lower rates of depression compared to those who are less sexually active.
Overall health impacts:
Impact on the immune system:
A study in Psychology & Health reveals that men with regular sexual activity have stronger immune systems, with higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), which helps fight bacteria and viruses.
Sleep disorders:
Sexual activity releases prolactin, a hormone that improves sleep. Abstinence can lead to insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, or restless sleep. Research in Sleep Medicine Reviews shows that sleep is significantly affected by the level of sexual activity.
To maintain health during periods of abstinence, men should increase physical activity, maintain a healthy diet, manage stress, ensure adequate sleep, and engage in reasonable masturbation.
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