If an apple a day keeps the doctor away, what can an orgasm do! By now, we all know the “Big O” feels good, but did you know it’s good for you, too? The benefits of an orgasm go far beyond pleasure. In fact, orgasms have an array of important health benefits for your mind, body, and beyond! As if you needed another excuse to have an orgasm, right?

1 – Reduces Stress: In her book, “The Orgasms Answer Guide,” sexuality educator, counselor, and researcher Dr. Beverly Whipple explains that orgasms happen when the hormone oxytocin is released from nerve cells in the hypothalamus. The chemical oxytocin that is released into the bloodstream stimulates feelings of warmth and relaxation. Although you might not have known the science behind it, we’re willing to bet you’ve experienced this too! In fact, a study done by clinical psychologist and sex therapist Carol Rinkleib Ellison found that 39% of women between the ages of 23 and 90 who masturbate claimed they did so in order to relax. So…sit back, Big O, and relax!

2 – A Fountain of Youth: The post-sex glow is no myth! Orgasms raise the levels of estrogen in your body which prevents the decrease of collagen, which, you guessed it, helps maintain your skins youthful appearance! Studies show that having sex three times a week with your partner can make you look 10 years younger!

3 – Pain Relief: Believe or not! An orgasm can help reduce your pain levels. Now that’s a new one! Remember that chemical oxytocin we mentioned earlier that helps relieve stress? That’s not the only thing this magical hormone does! Oxytocin, along with other endorphins that are released when you orgasm, are linked to relieving all kinds of pain. In her research, Dr. Whipple found when women masturbated to orgasm, their pain tolerance increased from almost 75% to over 105%!