Sex is 'good for health': Why do we believe this?

The notion that sex is inherently "good for health" is a common assertion in everyday language, often equating sexuality with physical activity and well-being. This article delves into the underlying pressures and injunctions behind this belief, questioning its universal applicability and exploring the discourse surrounding it.

For some individuals, sexuality is indeed linked to physical activity and a sense of well-being. Marie, a 45-year-old artistic director from French-speaking Switzerland, describes orgasm, whether experienced alone or with a partner, as a moment of profound mental and physical release. She finds it a unique form of relaxation that helps her escape daily worries.

"I feel like I have much deeper breathing, so I feel hyper-relaxed afterwards. It's like it opens my chakras," she explained. Marie contrasts this with her experiences with sports, stating, "Maybe it's also because I don't practice any sport. I tried, I even tried to run 10 kilometers and it didn't do anything for me..."

The article suggests that while some find significant benefits, the underlying societal messages about sex and health warrant closer examination. It aims to decipher the implicit expectations and understand how these discourses shape perceptions of sexual well-being.