twice a week was associated with a 45% lower risk of heart disease compared to less frequent sex.
It also showed that low sexual frequency may be linked to erectile dysfunction. A separate study found that quality rather than quantity seems to protect women from heart disease in later life.
Other research has linked sex to some surprising benefits, such as boosting immune function. Though it might not seem like something you’d want to engage in during a migraine or cluster headache, a study published in Cephalalgia found that it can bring about partial or even total pain relief.
And, last but not least, sex leads to something nearly everyone can use — better sleep. Certain hormones interact with the body’s sleep mechanism, leading to better slumber.
More information
The U.S. National Institute on Aging has more on sexuality later in life and how to better enjoy it as your body changes.
