Unsealed Section: Sexologist Chantelle Otten reveals the sex act that will help you sleep better
By Maddison Leach|
Sex ?really is good for your sleep, so if you've been struggling to nod off at night it might be time to spice up your sex life for a good night's sleep.
OK, it might not be as easy as that, but research has shown that sex and masturbation have a very beneficial effect on the average Australian's sleep patterns.
To dig a little deeper into the science of sex and sleep, 9Honey sat down with Psycho-Sexologist Chantelle Otten to get the lowdown on how getting frisky can help you sleep.
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Is sex good for your sleep?
The short answer is "absolutely"! The long answer is that the chemicals released during sex can greatly improve sleep quality.
"Beyond the obvious physical exhaustion that can aid in falling asleep, sex triggers the release of various hormones that benefit sleep," Otten explains.
"Oxytocin, affectionately known as the 'love hormone', and endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, are both released during sex.
"These hormones work together to create feelings of contentment and relaxation, helping to soothe the body and mind, and preparing them for restful sleep."
That's especially helpful for Aussies who have busy day-to-day lives, as those hormones can combat the ?anxiety and overstimulation that may be disrupting their sleep.
Why does sex make you so sleepy?
Aside from the physical exertion, there are also hormonal reasons behind that sleepy feeling you get after sex, especially if you had an orgasm.
"Orgasm triggers the release of oxytocin and prolactin จC hormones associated with feelings of relaxation and drowsiness," Otten says.
"Feeling emotionally connected to your partner can also create a sense of peace and safety that can further enhance sleep."
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Does sex before bed help you sleep better?
As mentioned above, all those good hormones will help create a feeling of drowsiness that typically leads to more restful sleep.
"It can help individuals transition into a more peaceful state... and facilitate a quicker onset of sleep and a deeper sleep cycle," Otten confirms.
So yes, having sex before bed will probably help you sleep better.?
Are there specific positions or acts that are the best for sleep?
"While there isn't a universal 'best' position or act for sleep, what's crucial is finding what brings you and your partner the most satisfaction," Otten says.
"Sexual satisfaction, irrespective of how it's achieved, leads to the release of pleasure and relaxation hormones, which in turn promote sleep."
That said, opting for a less physically taxing position can help you get in that sleepy state, as you're less likely to feel overly energized or exhausted afterwards.
Does masturbation before bed help just as much?
Going solo can be just as helpful for Aussies looking for a good night's sleep, as masturbation helps release many of the same sleep-inducing hormones?, like oxytocin and prolactin.
"The act itself can serve as a form of stress relief, which can be incredibly beneficial for individuals who struggle with anxiety-induced insomnia," Otten adds.
"The extent of its efficacy can vary from person to person, and while it may not necessarily offer more sleep benefits than partnered sex, it can certainly serve as an effective alternative."
Can lack of sex affect your sleep?
Not having sex can indirectly affect your sleep if you've been enjoying a healthy sex life and then start going without, because you won't be getting a hit of those drowsy hormones anymore.
"Regular sexual activity has been linked with lower stress levels and improved emotional well-being, which can have a positive effect on your sleep quality," Otten says.
"Therefore, if regular sexual activity ceases, you might find that your stress levels increase, leading to difficulties in falling asleep or staying asleep."
It won't ruin your sleep entirely, but you may notice some changes.?
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How much does lack of sleep affect your sex drive?
Not only can lack of sex affect your sleep, lack of sleep can affect your sex drive too.?
"Poor sleep can affect your sex drive, creating a feedback loop of reduced sexual activity and worsening sleep quality," Otten explains.
"Sleep deprivation can lead to decreased energy levels, increased stress, and hormonal imbalances, including lowered testosterone levels, which can all contribute to a decreased libido."
Can sleep apnea affect your sex drive?
"Yes, sleep apnea can negatively affect your sex drive," Otten confirms.
"The condition, characterized by interrupted sleep and reduced oxygen levels, can cause fatigue, reduced libido, and in men, it can lead to erectile dysfunction."
What is Sexsomnia?
Most Aussies have never heard of sexsomnia, which is a relatively rare sleep disorder, but it's a very real thing.
A subtype of parasomnia, sexsomnia causes individuals to engage in sexual behaviors while asleep and they might have no memory of their actions upon waking.
"It's crucial to seek professional help if sexsomnia is causing distress or potential harm to oneself or others," Otten warns.
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Is sex good for insomnia?
While sex can totally benefit your sleep routine, it's not a? cure-all solution and shouldn't be seen as a replacement for actual professional support.
"Sex might be beneficial for those struggling with insomnia, as it can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and shift the focus away from the pressure to sleep," Otten says.
"However, insomnia could be a symptom of various underlying health issues and it's recommended to seek professional help if the condition persists."
Can lack of sex cause insomnia?
"While lack of sex isn't directly linked to insomnia, it can contribute to factors that induce insomnia," Otten says.
Missing out on the physiological and hormonal benefits of sex can lead to higher stress levels and anxiety, which are key contributors to sleep problems like insomnia.
They make it harder to fall asleep, but the ?depth and quality of your sleep may also be affected, as you're also missing out on sleep-promoting hormones like oxytocin.
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That said, lack of sex typically doesn't cause insomnia in the same way that having sex typically won't cure it.?
"It's important to keep in mind that if you are struggling with insomnia, it could also be a symptom of other underlying health conditions, including mental health issues like depression or anxiety, or physical health problems such as sleep apnea," Otten says.
If you're struggling with insomnia, seek out professional medical advice.?
What causes arousal during sleep?
Many Aussies get aroused during the night or wake up a little horny, which Otten says is totally normal.
"Sexual arousal during sleep can be triggered by a range of factors, from physical stimulation to erotic dreams," she explains.
"Certain stages of the sleep cycle, particularly REM sleep, can also lead to sexual arousal."
So long as it's not ?causing distress or leading to problematic behaviors like sexsomnia, getting horny while you sleep isn't a big deal!?
Why is winter a good time to get between the sheets?
Falling asleep during the hot summer months can be a nightmare, so make the most of the cosy winter nights while you can - both for sleep and sex.?
"Winter's cold temperatures can lead to a physiological response that promotes sleep," Otten says.
"Sharing a bed with a partner during these colder nights can lead to increased body warmth and feelings of security and intimacy.
"Additionally, engaging in sexual activities during these cold nights can contribute to an even deeper sense of warmth and closeness, leading to more restful and satisfying sleep."
If you're concerned about your sleep health, take the free ResMed online sleep assessment at: www.resmed.com.au/sleep
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