Sex and men’s health
It’s Men’s Health Month and we’re talking about a topic that isn’t always in the spotlight, but usually on their minds: sexual health.
A satisfying sex life promotes a longer, healthier life.
Does sex become less frequent with age? Does it become less enjoyable? Sex doesn’t have to be either of these things. Many people want to maintain intimacy with others as they grow older. This includes the desire to continue an active, satisfying sex life, which in turn promotes a longer, healthier life.
The top five ways sex can help your overall health include:
1). Promotes heart health. A 2011 study in the American Journal of Cardiology suggests that men who have sex twice a week have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease than men who have sex less frequently. Sex has also been known to lower blood pressure.
2.) Burns calories. This one is a no brainer. You’re being more active than sitting around on the couch. A 20 minute love making session can burn an average of 150 calories.
3.) Expands life expectancy. Men who have sex on a regular basis are said to live longer than those who don’t. An Irish study published by the British Medical Journal said men with active sex lives reported feeling and looking younger.
4.) Reduces stress. People who have intercourse on a regular basis responded better to stress than those who didn’t. This is also due to the fact that heart health lowers blood pressure, which naturally makes the body feel more relaxed.
5.) Natural sleep aid. Research shows the oxytocin released during orgasm also promotes sleep. Good sleep is tied to a whole range of health benefits including better heart health and a healthier body weight.
Remember, you’re never too old to stop worrying about STDs. More than half of all people will have an STD at some point in their lifetime. Always practice safe sex.
Of course, with age sexual problems like male infertility and prostate issues can occur.
Sex has been shown to help prevent prostate cancer.
Male infertility is common and it is estimated to be the cause of a couple’s infertility in up to 30 percent of all cases. Many things can cause male infertility including infections, trauma, heat, and more. It is best to consult your doctor if you and your loved one are having trouble conceiving.
More good news–Sex has been shown to help prevent prostate cancer.
According to The American Cancer Society, about 1 in 6 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Prostate cancer occurs mainly in older men. Nearly two thirds of cases are diagnosed in men aged 65 or older, and prostate cancer is rare before age 40. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death in American men, with lung cancer being the first.
The discussion with your doctor about prostate cancer screenings should begin between age 45 and 50 depending on family history. A 2004 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association analyzed data on 29,342 men and found that men who had 21 or more orgasms per month were about 30% less likely to develop prostate cancer than those who had only four to seven a month.
So the next time you need a reason to be intimate, let them know it’s for your health! Doctor’s orders.
Christopher Moyer, DO
Urology of Central PA
