SAN FRANCISCO, California – A recent study conducted at the University of California revealed that sexual activity can play a crucial role in helping mothers of young children combat the harmful effects of stress on metabolic health. Research indicated that mothers who regularly engaged in sex showed higher levels of healthy metabolic hormones compared to those who were sexually inactive, particularly mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder.
Chronic stress can have detrimental effects on the body, increasing the risk of various health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, depression, stroke, and obesity. The study, led by Yoobin Park, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of California, focused on exploring protective factors against the negative impacts of stress on metabolic health, with a specific interest in the role of relational experiences in providing protection.
The research involved 183 women aged 20 to 50, with at least one child between the ages of 2 and 16, who participated in regular Perceived Stress Scale assessments over a period of two years. During each assessment period, participants completed 7-day diary questionnaires and clinic visits to collect health data, including blood samples to measure key metabolic indicators like insulin, insulin resistance, leptin, and ghrelin.
The findings indicated that sexually active mothers, regardless of their stress levels, exhibited similar metabolic profiles, highlighting the potential protective effects of sexual activity against stress-related impacts on metabolic health. In contrast, sexually inactive mothers with high stress levels showed a worse metabolic profile compared to sexually active mothers. The study suggested that sexual activity could significantly reduce the negative effects of stress on metabolic health.
Researchers emphasized the importance of further exploration in this area to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying the protective benefits of sexual activity. Park expressed the need for additional research to elucidate the broader implications of the protective effects of sex on metabolic health, suggesting that the benefits extend beyond physical activity and relationship satisfaction.
Overall, the study shed light on the potential health benefits of sexual activity for mothers dealing with stress, underscoring the importance of considering various factors, including intimate relationships, in promoting overall wellbeing. The findings contribute to the growing body of research on the impact of relational experiences on metabolic health and emphasize the need for continued investigation into the protective effects of sex in mitigating the detrimental effects of chronic stress.