Why Couples Who Have More Sex Live Longer and Healthier Lives
In a groundbreaking revelation that challenges traditional perceptions of sexual health, Adesida Adewumi, a renowned family physician, has shared new insights into the health benefits of regular sexual activity. According to Dr. Adewumi, couples who engage in frequent sex not only enjoy more satisfying relationships but also experience a significantly longer and healthier life. His observations, backed by scientific studies, have begun to shift how we view sexual activity in the context of overall well-being.
In an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on April 1, 2025, Dr. Adewumi, who has worked in the field of family medicine for over two decades, explained the wide-reaching effects of regular sexual activity on both physical and mental health. The conversation was illuminating, offering a comprehensive look at why intimacy in relationships can be just as vital as any other form of exercise or wellness practice.
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According to Dr. Adewumi, one of the most surprising health advantages of frequent sexual activity is its ability to strengthen the immune system. “Sex has an effect on the immune system,” Dr. Adewumi said, emphasizing that regular engagement in sexual activity helps keep the body’s defense mechanisms in peak condition. He explained that regular sex boosts the production of certain antibodies that help fight off infections, potentially leading to fewer colds, better overall health, and fewer days spent bedridden with illness.
Sexual activity has also been linked to better cardiovascular health. Engaging in regular sexual activity can significantly reduce the risks of both stroke and heart attack. Studies have shown that sexual intercourse helps improve heart health by enhancing circulation and lowering blood pressure, as well as promoting the dilation of blood vessels. This natural form of exercise helps to keep the heart functioning efficiently while maintaining overall cardiovascular health. “People who have regular sex tend to have lower blood pressure, reducing the likelihood of hypertension and the risk of heart disease,” Adewumi explained.
Dr. Adewumi highlighted the connection between regular sex and a reduced risk of certain cancers, particularly prostate and breast cancer. He emphasized that men who ejaculate 21 times a month have a significantly lower risk of developing prostate cancer. Research in this area supports his claims, with studies showing that frequent ejaculation may flush out carcinogens that can cause cancerous growths in the prostate. Similarly, he pointed out that regular sexual activity in women has been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer. The exact mechanisms behind this protective effect remain unclear, but the overall correlation is supported by several studies in the field.
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Another surprising benefit that Dr. Adewumi highlighted is the role of sex as a form of physical exercise. For individuals struggling with weight management, sex can act as an effective calorie-burning activity. When performed at least three times a week, sexual activity can mimic the effects of regular exercise by increasing heart rate, improving circulation, and helping the body burn calories. “Sex is a great way to boost metabolism,” Adewumi explained. “In fact, it’s a great way to maintain a healthy weight without having to invest hours in the gym.”
Moreover, sex can play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. For individuals with type 2 diabetes or those at risk, regular sexual activity helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. The increased circulation that occurs during sex can help the body use insulin more effectively, providing significant health benefits for individuals managing their blood sugar. Adewumi emphasized that for many people, regular sex might be just as beneficial as other forms of metabolic health interventions.
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Sexual activity is also linked to improved mental health. Dr. Adewumi explained that regular sex can help alleviate stress, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhance brain function. The physical and emotional release provided by sex stimulates the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones. These endorphins are vital for maintaining positive mental health, as they counteract the stress hormone cortisol, which can have damaging effects on the body when it remains elevated for long periods.
In addition to its mental health benefits, sex has been shown to improve cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain. “Engaging in sex not only helps to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety but also has cognitive benefits. It boosts brain activity and makes people feel more energized and focused,” Dr. Adewumi explained. This enhanced mental clarity can lead to better productivity, career satisfaction, and an improved quality of life.
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The emotional benefits of regular sexual activity are equally as significant. Dr. Adewumi explained that couples who have more sex tend to enjoy better relationships, characterized by stronger bonds, deeper intimacy, and improved communication. He highlighted that regular sex fosters a sense of emotional well-being, helping to reduce feelings of irritability and promoting a sense of mutual affection between partners. Couples who prioritize intimacy tend to report higher levels of relationship satisfaction, which can translate into a greater sense of overall happiness.
The positive effects of sex on intimacy and emotional health also have an indirect influence on the way couples approach other aspects of their lives. “Couples who engage in regular sexual activity are more likely to resolve conflicts with better communication and understanding,” Dr. Adewumi said. “They tend to be happier, more logical, and less irritable in their daily lives.” These emotional benefits are essential in maintaining a strong, loving partnership, which can also contribute to better physical health and longer life expectancy.
For women, Dr. Adewumi stressed the positive effects of sex on pregnancy, delivery, and post-delivery recovery. He explained that women who engage in regular sexual activity during pregnancy tend to have smoother deliveries and quicker recoveries. This is because sexual activity increases blood flow to the pelvic region, improving muscle tone and flexibility, which may help during childbirth. Additionally, sex during pregnancy has been shown to promote emotional well-being, reducing stress and fostering greater intimacy with partners during what can be a physically demanding and emotionally taxing time.
Postpartum, sexual activity can aid in the recovery process by helping to tone muscles and restore physical health more quickly. Adewumi noted that couples who maintain a healthy sexual relationship during the postpartum period may experience improved emotional well-being, contributing to better mental health during the recovery phase.
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Women can also benefit from regular sexual activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Adewumi suggested that women who engage in sex a few days before their menstrual cycle begins often experience fewer menstrual cramps. The release of endorphins during sex can act as a natural pain reliever, providing significant relief from the discomfort associated with menstruation.
Despite the many benefits of sex, Dr. Adewumi was quick to stress the importance of engaging in sexual activity within the context of a committed, monogamous relationship. He cautioned against the risks associated with unprotected sex and emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy, responsible approach to sexual activity. “A monogamous relationship significantly reduces the risk of exposure to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV, herpes, and hepatitis,” he said.
Engaging in regular sexual activity within a safe and committed relationship allows couples to enjoy the physical, emotional, and mental benefits of sex while minimizing the risks of exposure to harmful infections. Dr. Adewumi encouraged individuals to prioritize their health and safety by choosing responsible partners and ensuring that proper precautions are taken.
In conclusion, the findings shared by Dr. Adewumi shed light on the multifaceted health benefits of regular sexual activity. From improving cardiovascular health and boosting the immune system to reducing stress and enhancing mental clarity, the advantages are undeniable. Beyond the physical benefits, regular sex fosters intimacy, emotional well-being, and a sense of connection between partners—elements that are essential for a long and fulfilling life.
As science continues to uncover the vast health benefits of sexual activity, it becomes increasingly clear that intimacy is not just a pleasurable activity, but a powerful tool for improving overall well-being. For couples looking to lead longer, healthier lives, Dr. Adewumi’s advice is simple: prioritize regular sex as part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
