The purpose of sexual intercourse varies from one person to the next. Men tend to give more goal-oriented reasons, most of which are related to social status. Men have sex to increase their reputation, brag to their friends about their conquests, or compete with someone.
While women are less likely to have sex to settle a score or get revenge, their reasons may differ slightly. This article will explore the reasons behind sexual intercourse and give you a better understanding of the reason behind it.
Boosts overall well-being
Sex releases the “happy hormone” dopamine, which activates the pleasure center in the brain. Studies have shown that a boost in well-being is linked to both sexual activity and intimacy. Interracial relationships with no regular sex did not have the same positive effects on overall well-being. Researchers speculate that the effect of intimacy may be more important than previously thought.
Fosters positive emotions
Having sex may not be the most glamorous activity in the world, but it can have a positive effect on our overall well-being. The physical contact with a partner can improve your mood and strengthen the emotional bond. Sex releases oxytocin into your bloodstream, a hormone that fights off the stress hormone cortisol. If you want to increase the benefits of sex, try incorporating these techniques into your daily life.
Enhances commitment
A recent study by psychology researchers at the University of Texas found that women were less satisfied with sex than men. The study compared a 30-question survey of 93 men and 451 women and examined the correlation between sexual motives and satisfaction. The study also found that sex early in a relationship decreased the satisfaction and commitment levels of women. It also decreased the ability to manage differences and conflict in a relationship.
Releases feel-good hormones
Sex can release a host of feel-good hormones that support overall health. In fact, sex triggers the release of dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical, in the brain. Dopamine is released as the body anticipates sex and flirts with its partner, thus activating libido. Oxytocin, or the “love hormone,” also is released during sex, physical touch, and pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Improves sleep
Studies show that having sex before bed helps you fall asleep. The hormonal release of prolactin after sex makes women sleepy. Prolactin is also linked to relaxation and is believed to increase REM sleep. The feeling of well-being after orgasms improves sleep. Sex can be beneficial for both men and women. Sex before bed also reduces stress and improves sleep quality.
Reduces tension by stimulating the brain’s reward system
The DAergic system is a central part of the reward system in the brain. Diseases like Parkinson’s disease, depression, and schizophrenia result from dysfunction of this system. The VTA is an area of the brain closely associated with the development of stress-related behaviors. In the 1950s, researchers Peter Milner and James Olds implanted electrodes in rat brains to study its function. They found that certain parts of the brain are sensitive to electrical stimulation, including the septal area, located near the front end of the corpus callosum. The researchers observed that one rat pressed the lever over 7500 times in a period of 12 hours.
Improves relationship satisfaction
Research shows that having sex makes people happier. Researchers conducted a study in the U.S. by having couples read fictional scenes involving reasons to have sex and their overall relationship satisfaction. They found that the frequency of sex increased the satisfaction level of partners. The results were similar among men and women. In general, people who had sex more often were happier. However, there is still room for improvement.