What do you look for in a man when you are looking for a man? Well, new studies say that you should look at his bed. Researchers found that men who hit the bed early and sleep well have better-quality sperm. The same is true for women too. Women who sleep better tend to have a better sex life and fertility rate. Studies also say that sleep and sex are the two powerful bedfellows that can pull or push your health parameters.
A good night’s sleep is vital for healthy sex life. Studies show that people were having more sex in 2010 by 9 folds than in 2020. And the wrecked-up sleep routine is one of the primary reasons to blame. Because the millennials are trading their sleep, in exchange for screen time, their sex life is deeply impacted. From loss of libido, to lower levels of sexual hormones to infertility to erectile dysfunction, lack of sleep is a big contributor.
In an intriguing spin, sex also has a deep impact on sleep. Research says that orgasm before bed results in better sleep. Whether it’s sex with a partner or just masturbation, sex can improve your sleep quality and also cure sleep problems.
Also Read: 12 Health Benefits of Orgasm
Sleep Impact on Relationship
A good night’s sleep does more than give your eyes rest. It impacts the very foundation of your marriage, the vibrancy, intimacy, and vitality of your relationship. Sleep impacts your alertness, memory, mood, and physical health. Lack of sleep not only leaves you in a bad mood but also reduces your sensitivity and empathy towards each other.
A regular pattern of sleep deprivation can result in heightened stress, less intimacy, and sexual dissatisfaction. All of which cast a direct shadow on your relationship. It also impairs lucid thinking, decision-making, and aggressiveness!
So, if you are a couple fighting for silly reasons then it’s time you check your bedtime. Women, after childbirth, often experience lower libido or irritability because of sleepless nights. Several studies also said that woman needs more sleep than men. It is because of the exhausting transitions that happen in a woman’s life!
Also Read: What’s the right time for sex education in children?
Let’s Talk Science – How Does Sleep Affect libido?
Research revealed multiple ways in which sleep can affect sex.
It is now clear that sleep deprivation is associated with reduced sexual desire and arousal in women. In men, sleep deprivation is proven to be a risk for erectile dysfunction. Insomnia, which is one of the most common sleep disorders, can result in sexual dysfunction. Obstructive sleep apnea has also been associated with a high risk of erectile dysfunction.
Many studies on the impacts of night shifts on health have concluded that shift work can increase the risk of erectile dysfunction. Further, poor sleep has a huge impact on mental health. It can lead to depression, anxiety, restlessness, and fear, all of which are proven to have a detrimental impact on sexual desire and arousal.
Also Read: Sex and Intimacy – Things that nobody talks about
Let’s Talk Science -How Does drive Affect Sleep?
Just like sleep improves your sex life, sex can be the answer to sleepless nights. Studies show that orgasms before bedtime can contribute to better sleep. This is because after you achieve orgasm, your body releases hormones like oxytocin and prolactin. These induce pleasant, relaxing feelings that reduce the levels of stress hormones.
Sexual activity can often contribute to better sleep. After an orgasm, the body releases hormones, like oxytocin and prolactin, that can induce pleasant and relaxing feelings. Sex also reduces levels of the hormone cortisol, which is associated with stress.
In a survey, about 50% of men and women said that an orgasm from masturbation improved their sleep quality. In another study, it was found that sex with a partner may induce a feeling of closeness and intimacy. These satisfactory feelings are conducive to sleep.
Sleep and fertility – Research
A study reported that men who went to bed late had reduced semen quality.
Lack of sleep also impairs the secretion of reproductive hormones. Several studies revealed that young men who sleep 5 hours a night have the same levels of testosterone as that a man 10 years senior in age. In another word, lack of sleep, ages a man by a decade.
Similar impairments are also seen in female reproductive health. A study quoted that, for a woman, an hour of extra sleep could increase her likelihood of wanting sex by 14%. In addition to sleep duration, sleep quality also impacts fertility.
How much sleep do you need?
According to studies, almost all men and women need about 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. Sleeping less than that can result in sexual disorders in some. Also, sleeping more than 8 hours can result in reduced semen quality.
Thus, an active life, a healthy diet, and eight hours of sleep are the mantras of a healthy sex life!
intimacy and Sleep – Your bed partners!
As I always say, sex is not a taboo, but a blessing. It is a very important part, a means to a healthy life and fulfilling relationship. Sex is indeed the answer to a lot of worries, be it stress or sleeplessness. Likewise, sleep may be the answer to stressed sex life!
