For women, sex is often stigmatized from an early age. 

In fact, they’re regularly misinformed about what happens to their body if they engage in ‘too much’ sex or have ‘too many’ sexual partners. 

‘There is a long-standing myth surrounding women and their sexuality, particularly the misconception that frequent sexual activity can lead to physical changes or stretching of the vagina,’ explained OB/GYN Dr. Rosanna Littleproud in an interview with DailyMail.com.

‘However, this is simply not accurate. The vagina is composed of elastic connective tissue that allows it to expand and contract during sexual activity without any permanent alterations.’

In fact, Dr. Littleproud explained that sex can have many physical health benefits. 

She explained that like any form of exercise, sex increases your heart rate which can have a positive impact on your cardiovascular health. 

Dr. Littleproud also said that having sex can do wonders for your pelvic floor health as well. 

‘Recent research from 2022 revealed that orgasms, when paired with specific physiotherapy exercises, can actually contribute to enhancing pelvic floor strength and functionality post-childbirth. This is crucial for maintaining bladder and bowel control, as well as potentially improving sexual satisfaction,’ Dr. Littleproud highlighted.

OB/GYN Dr. Rosanna Littleproud explained that having sex can improve pelvic floor strength

Dr. Littleproud said that the vagina can expand and contract during sex without making permanent changes (stock image)

And sex isn’t just great for your body – it can have positive effects on your mind. 

Social worker and sex and relationship therapist Leigh Norén explained that one of the biggest mental benefits to having satisfying sex (because that clarification is extremely important) is that it can be stress-relieving. 

‘Research has found that couples who are in satisfying relationships find sex to be a good stress-reliever,’ Norén said. 

‘This is, however, not the case for couples who are in unsatisfying relationships.’

Norén also explained that having sex with your partner can lead to a more emotionally-gratifying relationship. 

‘Sex is also a great way to feel closer to your partner emotionally as pleasure and orgasms release oxytocin, the “bonding and love hormone,”‘ she said.

A surprising additional benefit to sex is actually increased productivity. 

‘One study found that individuals who were married, employed, and maintained an active sex life reported greater happiness at work following sexual activity,’ Norén said. 

Sex and relationship therapist Leigh Norén cited studies showing that having satisfying sex can actually increase productivity

‘The study also found that those who had sex the previous day felt more satisfied with their jobs and were more engaged in their work tasks.’

 Dr. Littleproud seconded the emotional benefits of sex. 

She explained that because sexual intimacy and orgasm can trigger the release of endorphins, dopamine, and oxytocin, sex can have a positive impact on mood. 

‘These hormones act as natural mood boosters, helping to reduce feelings of depression and anxiety,’ she said. 

Dr. Litteproud went on to mention that these hormones together are believed to lower cortisol levels as well. 

But both experts emphasized that this does not mean that women (or anyone) should be engaging in more sex, simply because it can be ‘good for you.’ 

Dr. Littleproud said that there is no ‘right’ amount of sexual frequency, and it all depends on what feels good to you.  

‘For those who don’t regularly engage in sex, while the above benefits may not be achieved, you don’t necessarily miss out on them if you’re feeling fine without sex,’ Norén said. 

‘Even though a good romp in the sack is something a lot of people strive for – not everyone does, and that’s okay too.’