Image: We’ll definitely have what Sally’s having.
Finally, some health news with a happy ending (well, hopefully more than one): orgasms can help fix some of life’s most common health complaints.
Let’s all take a moment to high five ourselves, shall we?
This news only serves as proof that the various myths about masturbation – that it causes blindness, hairy palms and insanity, for instance – are total bollocks.
1. Period pain
The monthly sensation of being punched in the guts is one of the least fun aspects of life as a woman. So it’s only fair that a natural method of relieving cramps happens to be one of life’s most enjoyable activities. Beats hugging a hot water bottle in the foetal position, that’s for sure.
When you have an orgasm your body releases a chemical called oxytocin, along with certain endorphins, which act like a free, all-natural answer to Panadol. And an effective one at that; a study by famed ‘sexologist’ and author Beverly Whipple found that when women reach climax through masturbation, their pain tolerance and pain detection thresholds rise by over 70%.
So next time you feel that unmistakable dull ache, you know what to do.
2. Headaches
The pain-alleviating benefits of orgasms don’t just apply to cramps – they can also lessen the thud of a headache. Yes, yes, it’s all very ironic considering headaches (real or not) are perceived as a common excuse used by women to not have sex. If you really don’t feel like getting busy, don’t do it – all we’re saying is, don’t let your sore head deter you.
3. Insomnia
Keep counting sheep all you like, but orgasms can be a much quicker (and less monotonous) way to help get you to sleep. Once again, you can thank that surge of oxytocin – it’s known to influence sleep processes, as well as ease tension in your body. Additional fun fact: Women’s bodies produce more oxytocin post-climax than men.
