Sexologist Dr. Jordin Wiggins, ND, owner and creator of Health Over All Inc., explains the broader picture: “Sex has complicated ties to mood, self-esteem, and releasing happy hormones like dopamine and oxytocin,” she said, adding that without it, “people might feel more agitated than they’re used to feeling.”
Libido, meanwhile, does not behave like hunger. Unlike the urge to eat or drink, which intensifies the longer it goes unmet, sexual desire tends to fade the longer someone goes without sex. Both men and women experience this gradual adjustment, according to research published via ResearchGate.
Why sex counts as a health behaviour
Sexual activity is increasingly studied alongside other lifestyle factors such as sleep, diet and exercise. It triggers the release of hormones including oxytocin and dopamine, which regulate stress, mood and immune response. The Cleveland Clinic and peer-reviewed research cited in medical databases such as NCBI have documented its links to cardiovascular health, sleep quality and pelvic function.
Vaginal atrophy: the real physical change — and the myth that won’t die
One persistent misconception is that the vagina becomes tighter after a long period without intercourse. According to medical literature published on NCBI, this is entirely false. What does occur is vaginal atrophy: the vaginal wall becomes drier and the pelvic floor can weaken.
These changes have practical consequences. A weakened pelvic floor can make it harder to reach orgasm, and dryness can make intercourse more uncomfortable when it resumes. The vagina is a self-lubricating organ, but after an extended period of inactivity, it may take longer to reach full lubrication.
Pelvic floor strengthening exercises are recommended to counter these effects, along with dedicated pelvic floor training devices. Adequate time and foreplay when resuming sexual activity are also advised, with no cause for concern if arousal takes slightly longer than before.
