Having sex when you’re sick won’t cure you or shorten the duration of your illness. It can also be risky for your partner because respiratory illnesses like the cold or the flu are spread through kissing, breathing close to each other, and coughing or sneezing.
However, sex can help you feel better when you’re sick in some ways. Read on to find out more!
1. It’s a form of pain relief
You might think that engaging in sex when you’re sick would be bad for your health, but it can actually have some surprising benefits. Sex releases oxytocin and dopamine, which are natural painkillers that can help relieve headaches, body aches, menstrual cramps, and nasal congestion.
During sexual arousal and orgasm, your sympathetic nervous system is working overtime to “get ready for action,” says Dr. Trost. This means that adrenaline levels are high, which causes your blood vessels to tighten, reducing inflammation in the nose and making it easier to breathe. The release of these feel-good hormones can also distract you from your stuffy nose, so that’s a plus.
However, it’s important to note that not everyone experiences this effect to the same degree. In some cases, sex when you’re sick can trigger nausea. While this isn’t a sign of pregnancy, it’s still worth noting so that you can talk to your doctor about potential underlying issues.
Another potential downside of sex when you’re sick is that it can increase your risk of transmitting STDs. For example, kissing can transfer up to 80 million bacteria per 10 seconds, and your partner may pick up viruses from your coughing or sneezing. This is why it’s always best to practice good hygiene, wash your hands frequently, and use protection with a clean condom whenever possible.
2. It can boost your immune system
It may be surprising to learn that sex can actually directly affect your immune system. Various studies have shown that it can increase your production of antibodies, which are proteins that fight off infections. These findings have led many people to believe that sex can help prevent colds and flu.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that these effects are temporary. In addition, sex can also spread germs. Respiratory illnesses are passed through droplets and saliva, so kissing, breathing close to each other’s faces, and coughing or sneezing while in close contact can quickly pass these germs from one person to another.
In addition, if you have a cold or the flu, it’s best to skip sexual activity until you are well. This is because you are contagious and engaging in sexual activity will increase the likelihood of passing the illness on to your partner.
Although, having sex can make you feel better in the short term by releasing endorphins and possibly clearing a stuffy nose. This is because the adrenaline causes blood vessels to constrict, which can temporarily relieve congestion. However, this effect won’t last very long and will fade once your body relaxes after orgasm. Additionally, it is still best to avoid face-to-face sex while sick, as this can spread infection more easily. Instead, try having sex in positions that are not face to face, such as spooning or doggy style.
3. It’s a way to bond with your partner
When you have sex, your body releases hormones like oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin. These hormones can improve your mood and make you feel happy even when you’re sick. They can also help you sleep better, which is important for your recovery.
Another benefit of sex is that it can give you orgasms. Orgasms can make you feel good and can also relieve sinus congestion. This is because the blood vessels in your nose swell up during orgasms, which makes it easier to breathe.
According to scientists, sex is also an effective way to bond with your partner. It can lead to feelings of euphoria, happiness and pleasure that can make you feel closer to your partner. These feelings can also make you more willing to take care of yourself and your partner when you’re sick. This is because you know that your partner will be more likely to love and care for you when you’re sick.
However, if you’re sick with the flu or a cold, sex may not be a good idea. These illnesses are spread through airborne droplets, so kissing or breathing close to each other can cause you to transmit the virus to your partner. In addition, the feverish body is already stressed out, so more stress from sex may not help you recover faster. If you do decide to have sex, make sure you use protection and wash your hands before and after.
4. It’s a distraction
Having sex can be a great way to distract yourself from the symptoms of your illness. It can also be a great way to bond with your partner and feel closer to them. This is likely due to the release of oxytocin, a hormone that is released during physical intimacy. Oxytocin is known for its ability to create feelings of closeness and love.
In addition, sex can also be a form of pain relief. It can help to relieve headaches, body aches, and menstrual cramps. This is likely due to the fact that sex can be relaxing and it can help to lower blood pressure.
It’s important to remember that sex while you’re sick can also make your partner sick. So, be sure to use condoms if you decide to have sex while you’re sick.
It’s hard to say why some people are horny when they’re sick. But, it’s possible that sex can give you a temporary feeling of well-being by triggering the release of endorphins. However, it’s important to remember that sex won’t cure your illness or speed up your recovery. So, if you’re feeling sick, be sure to rest and take care of yourself.
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