Can Orgasms Relieve Pain
Orgasms can help manage chronic pain by releasing feel-good neurotransmitters like oxytocin and endorphins, which alleviate pain and improve mood. They can act as an analgesic, meaning these hormones are released during sexual activity, helping to reduce stress levels and anxiety.
Masturbation has been shown to soothe some headaches through several key mechanisms. When you orgasm, your brain releases chemicals that serve as “natural painkillers”, such as oxytocin, which helps reduce stress, relieves pain, and makes you feel ecstatic. Orgasms attenuate pain without affecting tactile thresholds, while pain (e. g., vestibulodynia) is well known to block orgasm.
Research indicates that orgasms have several health benefits, including improvements in headaches, heart health, menstrual cramps, self-confidence, sleep, and stress. Pain-relieving opioids give us the feeling of ecstatic pleasure along with the feel-good neurotransmitter, serotonin, which acts as a reward for the joy of sex.
Female masturbation is more likely to occur during sexual relationships with their partners. Gentle, full-range-of-motion exercises can help minimize pain, reduce inflammation, and keep joints supple. Additionally, it promotes blood flow into cartilage, keeping it healthy.
Does Sexual Intimacy Reduce Pain?
Sexual intimacy can reduce pain by releasing endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. Research shows that orgasm can lower pain levels in women and even decrease headache pain. While seeking medical advice is essential for pain during sex, using lubricant or exploring non-penetrative intimacy with a partner can help. Painful intercourse, known as dyspareunia, can negatively impact relationships and overall quality of life. Treatment for painful sex addresses both the physical pain and psychological consequences.
Endorphins released during sexual activity act as natural painkillers, offering relief from conditions like back pain, menstrual cramps, and headaches. Although the benefits of sexual intimacy in reducing pain are more pronounced in men, women can also experience pain relief through sexual activity. Furthermore, sexual activity can improve mood, sleep, and stress levels. While some may find sex beneficial for relieving menstrual cramps and strengthening muscles, it is crucial to address any discomfort during sex and explore pleasurable and pain-free intimacy options with a healthcare professional.
The orgasm system is inextricably linked to the pain system, making the feeling of orgasm a form of “nonaversive pain." Orgasming may also help with period cramps, as hormones like oxytocin and endorphins can act as natural pain relievers.
Research suggests that sexual activity and orgasms can provide temporary pain relief, as they relax muscles and help with cramping. The release of endorphins from orgasm can alleviate migraines and assist people in managing chronic pain in general. Frequent sex or self-pleasure can relieve pain symptoms.
Author
Angela Berscheid
My name is Angela Berscheid, and I am a pharmacist, certified acupuncturist, and practitioner of Jin Shin Do® (RPharm, RAc, JSDP®). Ever since I was a child, I have dreamed of helping people. Inspired by my mother’s example, I became a pharmacist in 1988. However, I soon realized that I was drawn to a more natural and holistic approach to healing.
I discovered my true calling when I began studying Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the philosophy of the 5 Elements, and Jin Shin Do® acupressure. These profound insights set me on a new path. I enrolled at the Canadian College of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (CCAOM), Canada’s longest-standing TCM school at the time, earned my Diploma in TCM (DiplTCM), and began fulfilling my dream as an acupuncturist.
I have a deep love for nature, art, yoga, and Eastern spirituality, all of which inspire me and help me find harmony in both life and work.
- Place of work: Hoku Integrated Healthcare
- Tel: (778) 966-7100
- Email: angela@abcacupuncture1.com
- Address: 204a-1910 Sooke Road Victoria, British Columbia V9B 1V7
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