What Happens When You Don’t Have Sex at All?

Choosing to abstain from sexual activity is a personal decision that is non-fatal. The absence of sexual activity can have different implications on your body and state of mind, depending on your health, age, hormonal status, and lifestyle.

Hormones and Vaginal Health

Sexual activity, both penetrative and non-penetrative, may impact estrogen, vaginal lubrication, and elasticity. Regular sexual activity for premenopausal people may maintain the vaginal tone and blood flow. For the postmenopausal individual, not being sexually active may contribute to ongoing induction of vaginal atrophy, for example, dryness, thinning of vaginal walls, and pain, due to low estrogen levels and lack of stimulation.

Pelvic Floor Functions and Circulation

Sexual activity engages pelvic floor muscles that contribute to their strength and flexibility. Not being sexually stimulated may lead to decreased pelvic circulation and weakening of muscles over time. Pelvic floor health is possible through other forms of exercise, such as Kegel exercises and a healthy, active lifestyle.

Immunity and Regulated Menstruation

Some research suggests that sexual activity can somewhat enhance immune function and maintain regulated cycles through its effects on hormonal levels. Again, this is not suggested to indicate that the sexually inactive person has their cycle disrupted by violating any of these pathways. Factors such as stress, changes in weight, and hormonal disorders will play a greater role in those changes.

Mental Health and Intimacy
Psychologically, sexual abstention may affect mood, self-worth, and intimacy depending on the individual’s emotional and relationship needs, but many people will report that their well-being is stable or even improved while abstaining, especially when there was a voluntary decision or alignment with values.

Generally, not having sex at all is not medically harmful. Gynecologically, the physiologic effects will be different depending on the individual and the stage in life. Women experiencing discomfort, vaginal dryness, or other symptoms associated with abstention may wish to consult with healthcare providers to pursue alternative therapeutic options to sustain their reproductive and vaginal health.

By- Dr Kajal Singh, Associate Professor, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, NIIMS
Medical College and Hospital