September is Sexual Health Awareness Month
Fall can feel like a reset. Summer is ending, school is starting, days are slowly getting shorter. As the temperature outside is cooling off, inside we are turning up the heat! And what a perfect time to do so, given that September is Sexual Health Awareness Month.
While we are reminded of this, we are mindful that sex is an integral part of our physical and emotional health. In fact, studies have shown that having an active, healthy sex life can decrease blood pressure, relieve stress, better heart health and more. So, if you're feeling extra tense due to the kids heading back to school or the new season is making you feel a bit anxious, maybe an orgasm is the perfect remedy.
September 4th is Sexual Health Awareness Day. While we encourage you to pick up some Wet lube and celebrate, let's get into why sex is important:
- It reduces stress. Sex is a powerful stress-reliever. During sexual activity, the body releases endorphins and oxytocin, often referred to as "feel-good" hormones. These chemicals help to reduce levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. According to the Cleveland Clinic, engaging in sexual activity can create a sense of calm, relaxation, and overall well-being, making it an effective way to alleviate stress.
- It can increase intimacy. Sex is a fundamental way to enhance emotional intimacy between partners. Physical closeness, along with the release of oxytocin, also known as the "bonding hormone," fosters a deeper emotional connection. Regular sexual activity can strengthen the bond between partners, helping them feel more connected and loved, which is crucial for a healthy, long-term relationship.
- It boosts immunity. Research suggests that people who have sex more frequently have higher levels of certain antibodies, such as immunoglobulin A (IgA), which plays a critical role in the immune response. This enhanced immune function can help the body ward off illnesses more effectively. *Needing that as season changes*
- It improves mood. Along with feeling more aligned with yourself or your sexual partner, sex has a direct impact on improving mood. The release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin during sex can help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. These mood-boosting chemicals create feelings of happiness and satisfaction, which can contribute to a more positive outlook on life.
- It betters sleep quality. After an orgasm, the body releases prolactin, a hormone that promotes relaxation and sleep. Additionally, the physical exertion involved in sex can lead to a natural sense of fatigue, helping individuals fall asleep more easily and enjoy deeper, more restful sleep.
If you need some fun ideas on how to promote your own sexual health this month, we have some ideas in store for you:
- Masturbate. No matter your status, or what the misconceptions are about masturbating, it is common, and it is good for you! In fact, according to the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, 20% of women cite using masturbation as their primary means of achieving an orgasm. Also, if you feel like getting a partner involved, studies show that mutual masturbation can provide visual cues about pleasure triggers that can help your partners see physical likes and dislikes when it comes to arousal.
- Read about sex. Whether you want to crack open the trending steamy romance book everyone's been talking about, or you feel like you want to learn more about the benefits of sex, reading is a great way to get in touch with that part of yourself independently. We've curated a reading list for all types of readers and there is plenty more to discover in the seemingly endless books and articles about and alluding to sex.
- Get an STI check. The CDC estimates about 1 in 5 people are living with HIV and are unaware of their infection. Maybe you've been putting off getting tested for STIs, but taking your sexual health seriously is crucial to your overall health. Take the time this September to make that appointment.
- Have an open conversation about sex. While there are so many misconceptions about sex and many traditional means of sexual education do not encompass the scope of all things sex, taking the time this month to have a conversation with a friend, partner, child could make a huge difference in their relationship with sex. Take the time to acknowledge the misconceptions about it and discuss why sex is important without judgment.
- Plan a date night. If you are looking to get in touch with your sexual side, plan a night to do so! Whether it's making a reservation for you and your partner or taking a night for yourself in the bath, make the time to treat yourselves and get sexy with it. And pick your favorite Wet lube while you're at it to make it extra special.
- Throw a sex toy party. Invite all your best friends over for a night dedicated to fun and sex. You can exchange insight about your favorite sex toys and accessories and have that much needed quality time with the people closest to you.
- Watch your favorite sexy movie. What better way to get in the mood than to watch a sexy movie? This is an activity you can do alone or with a partner/s. We've already curated a list of hot and steamy films in case you need some inspiration.
- Take sex seriously. Whether it's to improve your health, your relationship, or your mindset, take sex seriously this month. You owe it to yourself to understand how sex can benefit you and your partner. Don't let this month go by without addressing it!
LINKS:
- https://www.ohsu.edu/womens-health/benefits-healthy-sex-life
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-sex
- https://www.sleepfoundation.org/physical-health/sex-sleep
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10903564/
- https://www.cdc.gov/hiv-data/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/statistics/surveillance/incidence.html