Potential health benefits from controlled intercourse

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Importance of connection with lover

hamster pair

Overview of effects of oxytocin

The research listed here does not prove that controlled intercourse grants the benefits listed here. None of this research was done on controlled intercourse. However, this research does suggest that there are potential health gains from behavior that emphasizes the steady production of oxytocin. By implication, the affectionate, caring contact of the type emphasized in the Ecstatic Exchanges (from Peace Between the Sheets) is likely to promote the presence and benefits of oxytocin.

  • Oxytocin has dose-dependent developmental effects on pair-bonding and alloparental care in female prairie voles (size dose of oxytocin changes behaviors)

    Here's abstract:

    The present study examines the developmental consequences of neonatal exposure to oxytocin on adult social behaviors in female prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster). Female neonates were injected within 24 h of birth with isotonic saline or one of four dosages of oxytocin (OT). As adults, females were tested in an elevated plus-maze paradigm (a measure of anxiety and exploratory behavior), and for alloparental behavior and partner preferences. At 2 mg/kg OT, females took longer to approach pups, but were the only group to form a statistically significant within-group partner preference. At 4 mg/kg OT, females retrieved pups significantly more frequently but no longer displayed a partner preference; while females treated developmentally with 8 mg/kg spent significantly more time in side-to-side contact with a male stranger than any other treatment group. OT may have broad developmental consequences, but these effects are not linear and may both increase and decrease the propensity to display behaviors such as pair-bonding.

  • Neuro Endocrinol Lett. 2009 Aug 26;30(3):335-342. [Epub ahead of print] "Oxytocin and carbetocin effects on spontaneous behavior of male rats modulation by oxytocin receptor antagonists. (oxytocin administered via peripheral injection does cross blood/brain barrier)
  • Oxytocin may mediate the benefits of positive social interaction and emotions (oxytocin may explain benefits of touch therapies, social interaction, and meditation)
  • More frequent partner hugs and higher oxytocin levels are linked to lower blood pressure and heart rate in premenopausal women. (frequent hugs between spouses/partners are associated with lower blood pressure and higher oxytocin levels in premenopausal women)
  • Oxytocin, a mediator of anti-stress, well-being, social interaction, growth and healing (positive interaction involving touch and psychological support may be health-promoting due to oxytocin, oxytocin production increases sensitivity to oxytocin)
  • The oxytocin receptor system: structure, function, and regulation (oxytocin has far reaching effects on mind and body)
  • Oxytocin stimulates its own production by activating oxytocin receptors, which stimulate cells to produce more oxytocin. Kerstin Uvnäs Moberg, The Oxytocin Factor (Cambridge: Da Capo Press, 2003) pp. 60, 61

Counters infection and allergic reaction, speeds healing

Counters addiction and overeating

Counters stress and improves maternal behavior

Pain reduction

Counters depression

Inhibits cancer

Sexual receptivity and erectile health

Miscellaneous benefits associated with oxytocin

Trust associated with higher levels of oxytocin

Monogamy (which is associated with increased longevity and better health)

More Research

Evolution, mating and bonding

Limbic system and reward circuitry

Post-coital hangover

Potential health risks

Return to detailed outline of all research

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