Beyond the Bedroom A Look at Sexual Culture
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The Link Between Sleep and Sexual Health
Americans now get 20% less sleep on average than they did in the 1960s, and this lack of sleep has been shown to be linked to a number of negative effects. One such effect is on sexual health, as there is a connection between healthy sleeping habits and a healthy sex life.
Reduced Libido
When you don’t get enough sleep, it can lead to a reduced libido. Fatigue and a lack of energy can take away from the inclination to get intimate, as the body is not feeling energetic and alert. Additionally, when someone recurrently lacks sleep, the body can go into a “fight or flight” response, which can also lead to a reduced libido.
Erectile Dysfunction
Lack of sleep has also been linked to erectile dysfunction in men. Research has shown that men who get an average of 5 hours of sleep a night, are twice as likely to experience ED than men who get 7-8 hours of sleep. The exact mechanism of how this connection works is not exactly known yet, but there is a clear correlation between the two.
Testosterone
Testosterone is the hormone responsible for sexual drive in both men and women. Studies have shown that a natural hormonal dip can occur between 2am and 4am, resulting in an increase in the risk of erectile dysfunction. Therefore, getting enough sleep throughout the night is essential for regulating hormones and maintaining a healthy sex life.
Tips for Improving Sleep Quality
If you have been having trouble with your sleep, here are some tips to help improve your sleep quality:
- Set a consistent sleep/wake time– Go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day.
- Exercise Regularly– Exercise can help reduce stress and regulate hormones, leading to a better quality of sleep.
- Limit your caffeine intake– Too much caffeine can interfere with your quality of sleep.
- Make sure your sleeping environment is comfortable– Be sure to adjust temperature, light, noise, and other elements that can interfere with good sleep.
- Avoid screens before bed– Turn off your screens at least 30 minutes before bed.
Establishing healthy sleep habits is key for maintaining good sexual health, as it can help regulate hormones and reduce fatigue, ultimately leading to improved sexual satisfaction.
