Sex as an underrated 'biohack': experts reminded of the importance of sexual wellbeing for women

During orgasm, a whole chain of reactions takes place in a woman's body in a matter of seconds: muscles reach a peak of tension and relax, the brain is activated in different areas, and the "pleasure hormones" oxytocin and dopamine are released into the bloodstream. Many people notice a reduction in headaches and other unpleasant sensations, improved sleep and a general sense of calm. And all this - not an expensive procedure in the spa, but the physiological effect of a normal orgasm, writes Elle.

Historically, sexual pleasure has already been seen as part of general well-being. Thus, the "Kama Sutra", created around the 3rd century AD, described sex as one of the elements of a harmonious life. During the sexual revolution of the 1960s and 1970s, women were actively encouraged to explore their sexuality. But in today's wellness culture, sexual pleasure has all but disappeared from the agenda. Stem cells, cryotherapy, gadget-assisted performance tracking, cold baths and "biohacking" all look very "healthy" but are almost devoid of the topic of sex. Even in the most expensive wellness retreats, women's sexual health is barely discussed.

"It's funny to see a lot of talk about health and wellness, but sexual wellbeing is either not mentioned at all or is touched on very superficially," says sex and family therapist Donna Oriowo (Donna Oriowo, PhD). Meanwhile, according to an analysis of survey data from the Institute for Family Studies, the percentage of American adults who have sex at least once a week has fallen to its lowest level in 34 years - a phenomenon already being called the "sexual recession."

Menopause, hormones and a new frankness

Perimenopausal and menopausal women are largely responsible for the increase in openness in talking about sex, according to Texas obstetrician-gynecologist Roxanne Pero, MD. At this stage of life, many deal with hormonal changes and sexual side effects - decreased libido, dryness, discomfort.

In pop culture, this topic is also becoming more prominent. One of the most talked-about novels of 2024, Miranda July's All Fours, is about a perimenopausal heroine's sexual awakening.

"There's a huge vacuum: women with hormonal changes are simply not offered adequate solutions for sexual wellbeing," Perot notes. A more positive attitude toward sex could help women of all ages, she says.

Influencer Tinx puts it more simply: "We spend a lot of money on green smoothies and yoga, but ignore the most basic wellness experience. Personally, I feel most beautiful after an orgasm."

When a sex life is a health benefit

As with mental health, there is no one-size-fits-all indicator of a "proper" sex life. For some, the optimum is frequent sex, while others are more comfortable with moderate activity or an emphasis on self-satisfaction. The basic criterion, according to Perot, is simple: a sex life is healthy if you are satisfied with it and look forward to it, rather than seeing it as a chore.

Research shows that satisfying sex provides more than just short-term relaxation. Women who experience quality sex show better cardiovascular function on average - probably due to exercise and reduced stress. There's an inverse relationship with mental health, too:

"Women with depression and anxiety disorders are more likely to complain of low sexual satisfaction, and vice versa - low sexual satisfaction increases the risk of mood disorders," says Perot.

The industry is waking up too

Brands are gradually responding to the demand. The women's company Dame produces sex toys and grooming products in minimalist, "unashamed" packaging. Perfume brand Vyrao recently introduced fragrances inspired by the theme of pleasure. And actress Halle Berry, who earlier publicly revealed how her doctor mistook her perimenopausal symptoms for herpes, launched Respin Health, a platform with products for menopausal and perimenopausal women.

The self-satisfaction product segment is also growing. Pleasing, a brand founded by singer Harry Styles, launched its first vibrator and lubricant. Tinks has teamed up with cosmetics brand Saint Jane to create an intimate care oil.

"Women can and should enjoy themselves simply because they are in touch with their bodies," she emphasises. - "There's no extra 'point' to it other than taking care of yourself."

Experts agree that masturbation should be seen as a form of self-care. "It's time that you consciously spend with and for yourself, the main purpose of which is your pleasure," Oriovo explains. Singer Billie Eilish admitted in an interview with Rolling Stone that regular masturbation has helped her cope with a distorted perception of her own body and improved her mental state: according to her, "self-pleasure is a huge, very important part of my life and a great support."

There's a lot of sex in conversation - not enough in wellness

Experts are convinced that once sex is no longer seen through the prism of shame and taboo, its role for the health of the whole body becomes obvious. And if a person has tried cryochambers, infrared saunas, acupuncture and sleep tracking with smart rings, but still feels burnt out and unsatisfied, perhaps it is worth looking not only at biomarkers, but also at your own sex life.

Instead of yet another expensive procedure, sometimes it's enough to honestly ask yourself: am I forgetting the most basic component of my well-being?