We already know that sex is healthy - it reduces pain, gives your heart a boost and makes you feel happier. But aside from those obviously sexy reasons to get it on, there’s a whole world of additional health benefits … if you’re willing to get a little kinky. Here’s the dirty on the little-known healthy side effects of wilder sex.
To swallow or not to swallow?
That's a big question for a lot of women, but if you're pregnant you might want to go with the latter. Why? Because swallowing semen may prevent miscarriages and pre-eclampsia. Yes, you read that right. A study by Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands found that women who swallowed had lower incidences of those two difficult conditions during pregnancy, possibly as a result of exposure to the father's DNA. Dutch researchers have further shown that women who practice oral sex and swallow regularly are less likely to suffer from pre-eclampsia or miscarriage because of the body’s well-known ability to tolerate things better when they enter through the mouth. Plus,if you and your partner are into it, swallowing can be very intimate and sexy! (For more sexy fun, check out 7 Safe, Sizzling Sex Positions for Pregnant Women.)
Don't Worry Do Oral
Another little-known health benefit of semen: vaginal, oral or skin contact to semen can have anti-depressant qualities, according to a study by State University of New York. Semen contains chemicals known to increase affection and elevate mood. It even contains a natural antidepressant and sleeping aid. It’s definitely more fun than a pill! That said, exposure to semen is only healthy if you skip the STIs that can come with swapping fluids. To ensure a happy ending, always use a condom unlessyou've both been tested or are in a long-term monogamous relationship.
Let It Fly
Guys, this one’s for you: ejaculating often, especially when you’re young, can help you avoid prostate cancer when you get older. The Journal of the American Medical Association published a study that found a correlation between frequent ejaculations and a lower risk of cancer: men who came 21 times or more a month were less likely to get prostate cancer, whether they masturbated or had fun with a friend. (Or, you could have it both ways. Read more in Double the Fun! 5 Hot Tips on Self Touch for Two.)More Kink, Less Crazy
A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that on a self-reported test, people who practiced BDSM on a regular basis were less neurotic, more open, more secure in their relationships and had an overall better sense of well-being than people who only practiced vanilla sex.
The theory is that kinky people have better communication skills and are more aware of their own psychology because they've learned to own it in a world where their desires aren’t the norm. Pretty cool, huh? (Learn more about the study - and BDSM - in Why BDSM Might Be the Sanest Sex Out There.)