A doctor has shed light on the unexpected dangers of prolonged celibacy, revealing that going extended periods without sex may have serious consequences for both your mental and physical health.
While some people might assume that a lack of intimacy is no big deal, experts warn that it could be affecting your body and mind in ways you may not even realize. From heightened stress and irritability to potential disruptions in hormone levels, sleep cycles, and overall well-being, neglecting your sex life might be doing more harm than you think.
How Often Are People Actually Having Sex?
According to recent research conducted by NapLab, the average American only engages in sexual activity once per week. While this might seem reasonable, medical professionals suggest that less frequent intimacy could have a more profound impact on the body and brain than most people assume.
One expert argues that if you go too long without physical intimacy, you may begin to experience a decline in emotional well-being, increased anxiety levels, and even physical manifestations of stress—all of which can subtly disrupt your quality of life.
How a Lack of Sex Affects Your Mental Health
Psychologists have found that sexual activity is deeply linked to emotional stability and mental well-being. According to sexual health specialist and psychiatrist Dr. Sham Singh, failing to engage in intimacy over long periods may trigger emotional distress, heightened irritability, and a greater risk of mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.
“Suppressing sexual urges without alternative stress-relieving outlets can build up frustration and also aggravate anxiety or irritability,” Dr. Singh explains.
Beyond just mood swings, prolonged celibacy reduces the natural release of endorphins and oxytocin—both of which are key hormones responsible for lowering stress and promoting relaxation.
Scientific Evidence: Does Sex Actually Reduce Stress?
There’s a scientific basis behind these claims. A 2021 study that examined the sex lives of 4,000 people during the COVID-19 pandemic found that those who maintained an active sex life reported significantly lower levels of anxiety than those who went without.
Researchers attribute this to the massive spike in endorphins during intercourse, which studies suggest can increase by 200% during sexual activity. These feel-good hormones act as natural painkillers and stress relievers, meaning that people who consistently engage in intimacy may experience greater emotional stability and improved overall happiness.
Physical Health Risks of Long-Term Celibacy
While the mental and emotional consequences of abstinence are concerning, the physical effects can be just as significant.
Dr. Singh highlights that going without sex for extended periods may lead to a buildup of bodily tension and restlessness, which can manifest as:
- Increased muscle tightness and body aches
- Difficulties concentrating
- Heightened sensitivity to physical touch
Moreover, he emphasizes that hormonal imbalances caused by prolonged celibacy may affect energy levels, appetite, and sleep cycles. This is largely due to changes in testosterone, estrogen, and the stress hormone cortisol, which are all influenced by sexual activity.
“Long-term abstinence from sexual activity can have different effects on people’s energy levels, appetite, and sleep due to hormonal changes,” Singh explains.
One of the most common side effects? Fatigue.
“Many people who abstain from sex for long periods report feeling more fatigued, as sex is a natural way to relax and promote better sleep,” he adds.
How Common Is Long-Term Abstinence?
If you think celibacy is only common among older generations, think again. Studies reveal that a surprising number of younger adults are also experiencing extended periods without sex.
A UK-based study examining the sex lives of individuals between the ages of 18 and 75+ found that:
- 1 in 5 people over 18 reported not having sex at all.
- Among 18-24-year-old men, only 58% had been sexually active within the past three weeks.
- For women in the same age group, 68% reported recent sexual activity.
- Between ages 25-29, 61% of men and 77% of women were sexually active.
- In the 75+ age group, 49% of men and 21% of women still maintained some level of sexual activity.
While these numbers suggest that many adults are engaging in sex regularly, they also highlight a significant portion of the population that is either inactive or abstinent.
Can a Lack of Sex Increase the Risk of Death?
Perhaps the most shocking revelation comes from a 2023 review of 43 scientific studies, which found that:
- Women between the ages of 20 and 59 who had sex less than once a week were 70% more likely to die within the next five years.
- By contrast, those who maintained a more frequent sex life showed no increased risk of mortality.
While the exact biological mechanisms behind this statistic remain unclear, researchers believe that the combination of hormonal regulation, improved cardiovascular health, and stress reduction plays a significant role in increasing life expectancy for those with active sex lives.
The Bottom Line: Is Regular Sex Essential for Health?
While sex isn’t the only factor that determines overall well-being, research strongly suggests that maintaining a healthy sex life may play an essential role in both physical and emotional health.
If you’ve noticed increased stress, restless sleep, or mood swings, it may be worth considering the role intimacy plays in your life—or finding alternative ways to release stress, such as exercise, meditation, or other forms of emotional connection.
For those who have gone long periods without sex, understanding these effects may help explain certain mood changes, stress levels, and even overall energy fluctuations.
While it’s not about frequency for the sake of it, experts agree that sexual activity offers a range of benefits that shouldn’t be overlooked.
If the science is any indication, making intimacy a priority—when possible—might just be one of the easiest ways to improve your quality of life.