Not having sex can lead to potential physical effects like
weaker pelvic muscles (women) or increased ED risk (men), stress/blood pressure hikes due to less “happy hormone” release, and emotional impacts like “touch starvation,” anxiety, or even heightened libido for some; however, abstinence isn’t inherently bad, with benefits varying by individual, and people can still meet sexual needs in other ways.
Physical Changes
Hormonal Shifts: Less release of endorphins and oxytocin can elevate stress and blood pressure.
Vaginal Health (Women): Tissues can become thinner, drier, and shrink without regular intercourse, potentially making sex painful.
Pelvic Floor (Women): Inactivity can weaken pelvic floor muscles, possibly leading to urinary incontinence.
Erectile Function (Men): Infrequent ejaculation might increase the risk of erectile dysfunction.
Immune System: Lack of intimacy (including sex) can potentially weaken the immune system.
Emotional & Mental Effects
Stress & Mood: Higher stress, irritability, anxiety, and feelings of isolation are possible due to missing stress-relieving hormones.
Touch Starvation: A lack of physical intimacy can lead to “skin hunger,” affecting mood and well-being.
Libido Changes: Some experience a decrease in sex drive, while others might find their libido increases as they focus on it more.
Confidence: Re-entering sexual activity after a break might bring temporary soreness or loss of confidence.
