Engaging in sexual intercourse is associated with several physical and mental health benefits. Among them are deepening relationships, reducing stress, and boosting confidence. But what role does it play in keeping our genitals healthy? In an exclusive interview with GMA News Online, Dr.
Anafe Obrigoso-Gloria, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, said that sexual intercourse is indeed beneficial in "maintaining normal vaginal health.” “Sexual intercourse is beneficial mainly because of the secretions coming from the male,” Dr. Gloria said, noting that sexual activity produces “natural lubrication” for the genitals.
The vagina is naturally moist, providing "an alkaline environment that sperm can survive in and travel in for sexual reproduction," Healthline said. According to Science Direct , this lubrication is reliant upon healthy blood flow because the vagina actually contains no glands. While occasional vaginal dryness is common, Medical News Today said vaginal dryness becomes more regular as a person ages.
"During and after menopause, the body produces less estrogen, which leads to fewer moisturizing secretions and can make the vagina feel dry," it said. But it's not decrease in estrogen production that causes vaginal dryness. Says Healthline, breastfeeding, cigarette smoking, excessive stress, rigorous exercise, and medication, to name a few, can cause vaginal dryness.
“So having intercourse by itself makes the vagina healthier, but, you know, don�.
