Beyond physical well-being, sexual activity stimulates the hippocampus, the area responsible for learning and memory.
Studies suggest that a healthy sex life may contribute to brain health, the body’s main control organ. Stress reduction related to sex and better sleep quality are the most known potential benefits.
Research also points out that sexual activity may be associated with the production of new neurons, a process known as neurogenesis. In addition, the positive influence of sexuality on cognition is also observed in older adults.
Keep reading to understand how sex improves sleep and supports mental health.
Why does sex improve sleep?
A study on the benefits of sex for sleep explains that this may result from hormonal action during orgasm.
The study analyzed 7 heterosexual couples, and their sexual activity and sleep were monitored over 11 consecutive nights.
Sexual activity included penetrative sex and solo and partnered masturbation.
The authors point out that the release of hormones such as oxytocin and prolactin, along with cortisol inhibition, has a relaxing effect.
Regarding partnered sexual activity, the benefits noted in other research—such as the link between sex and relaxation—were also observed.
The study observed favorable physiological effects, such as changes in blood pressure and heart rate during the observation period.
Its main contribution is to indicate that orgasm may help with sleep both after solo masturbation and after sexual activity with a partner.
Read also: What is ejaculation: understand the process and factors involved
Sex improves sleep: benefits for sleep quality
Orgasm may help you sleep better
Research indicates that orgasm may favor sleep due to the combination of prolactin and oxytocin release and reduced cortisol.
Oxytocin and prolactin are associated, respectively, with relaxation, pleasure, and greater emotional bonding between partners.
As a result, cortisol levels—the “stress hormone”—may drop, supporting well-being during and after sex.
Sex before bed: does it improve sleep?
A study from the American Psychological Association suggests that sex before sleep may benefit physical and mental health.
On average, sexually active people reported better sleep quality and blood pressure within normal ranges.
Participants also described less stress and greater optimism the day after sexual activity.
Sleep cycle and sexuality
The relationship between the sleep cycle and sexuality is discussed in this Journal of Sleep Research study.
The authors analyzed 14 consecutive days of sleep and sexual activity logs from 256 volunteers.
Sexual activity considered included masturbation and partnered sex (oral and vaginal).
They found that both partnered sex and masturbation with orgasm were associated with improved sleep latency and sleep quality.
This indicates, on average, a shorter time to fall asleep and better perceived rest quality.
Sex and brain health
An article explores how having a healthy sex life relates to cognition in older adults.
The authors analyzed 207 men and women over 60 years old with normal cognition or mild cognitive impairment.
They concluded that good sleep supports brain health, though in different ways.
For women, both excessive sleep duration and poor perceived sleep were linked to worse brain outcomes.
For men, efficient sleep—even if not perceived as perfect—appeared important for brain health.
Read also: Male libido: identify signs and regain desire
Sex and body relaxation
This article on the relationship between sex and sleep quality analyzed 778 people—442 women and 336 men.
According to the authors, sex was associated with mental well-being and better sleep. The researchers observed that orgasm—whether during partnered sex or masturbation—may contribute to sleep quality and latency.
They cite that oxytocin and prolactin released after orgasm may help people fall asleep.
Orgasm may aid sleep because oxytocin relaxes the body and increases feelings of trust and well-being, while prolactin promotes calm, helping reduce anxiety.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I feel sleepy after sex?
Sleepiness after sex may occur because the body releases substances linked to relaxation and drowsiness, such as prolactin.
What are the benefits of having sex?
Potential benefits reported by studies include supporting sleep, positive effects on physical and mental health, and possible immune benefits associated with regular sexual activity.
Does sex help mental health?
Scientific evidence suggests that sexual activity may be associated with better sleep and mental health—partly via sex hormones and brain areas that regulate mood and reduce stress.
What else improves sleep quality besides sex?
A healthy sex life may support sleep quality. Additionally, stress management, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet are habits that also improve sleep.
Visit our YouTube channel for more content on men’s sexual health
Staying informed about sexual health helps with conscious decisions for quality of life.
Subscribe to Dr. Paulo Egydio on YouTube and turn on notifications so you don’t miss new content.
