From the Guidelines
Lack of sex does not cause any direct physical health problems, and individuals can live healthy lives with varying levels of sexual activity or none at all. While some individuals may experience feelings of frustration, stress, or emotional dissatisfaction during periods without sexual activity, there are no medical conditions that develop specifically from sexual abstinence. People may notice changes in mood, increased sexual thoughts, or temporary physical responses like sexual tension, but these are not harmful health conditions.
Key Points to Consider
- Sexual activity is a personal choice, and many people live healthy lives with varying levels of sexual activity or none at all.
- Some research suggests potential benefits to regular sexual activity for stress reduction, immune function, and cardiovascular health, but these can often be achieved through other activities like exercise and social connection.
- If someone is concerned about sexual health or function, speaking with a healthcare provider can address specific questions or concerns, but there is no medical need to engage in sexual activity for physical health maintenance.
- According to the most recent study 1, sexual dysfunction can cause increased distress and have a significant negative impact on quality of life, but this is not a direct result of lack of sex, rather a complex interplay of physical and emotional factors.
- The study also emphasizes the importance of discussing sexual health with healthcare providers, as effective strategies for treating sexual dysfunction exist, and open communication can help address specific concerns and improve overall well-being.
From the Research
Lack of Sex Causes
The provided studies do not directly address the question of what lack of sex causes. However, they do discuss the effects of erectile dysfunction (ED) on quality of life and relationships.
- Erectile dysfunction is associated with a reduced quality of life for patients and their partners 2.
- ED can lead to an impaired quality of life (QOL) and is linked to life satisfaction 3.
- Treatment of ED can improve sexual satisfaction and quality of life 4, 3, 5.
Related Factors
Some factors related to lack of sex or erectile dysfunction include:
- Increasing age 2
- Depression 2
- Obesity 2
- Lack of exercise 2
- Diabetes mellitus 2, 4
- Hypertension 2, 4
- Dyslipidaemia 2
- Cardiovascular disease 2
- Lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia 2
Treatment Outcomes
Treatment outcomes for ED can vary, but some studies suggest that: