Why do we need sex?

I’ll answer honestly and directly: we need sex not just for reproduction. In fact, reproductive function is just the tip of the iceberg; beneath the surface lies an entire ocean of biological, psychological, and social reasons that make sex one of the fundamental human needs (alongside food, sleep, and safety).

Let’s break it down — no euphemisms, but from a scientific perspective.

1. Biological imperative: the chemistry of the body.

Our body is programmed for sex. This is not a “hobby”; it is an inherent mechanism for the survival of the species.

· Dopamine reward: during sex, the brain releases dopamine — a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. This is our internal “carrot” that makes us seek intimacy again and again.

· Oxytocin — the bonding hormone: during orgasm, both sexes (but especially women) release oxytocin. This substance literally “binds” people emotionally, reducing anxiety levels and creating a sense of security. This is the chemical foundation of love.

· Testosterone and estrogen: Regular sex helps maintain hormonal balance. In men, it supports muscle tone and libido; in women, it helps regulate the menstrual cycle and maintain bone health.

· Immunity: Studies show that people who have sex 1–2 times a week have higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA). This is our first line of defense against colds and infections.

2. Psychological aspect: Stress relief

Sex is the most powerful antidepressant provided to us by evolution.

 Cortisol reduction: In a state of stress, our cortisol levels (the stress hormone) go through the roof. During sex, its level drops, while endorphins (internal opiates) increase. This is a natural painkiller and sedative.

· Self‑esteem: Feeling desired is a basic need. Sex confirms our attractiveness and significance to another person, which directly affects our self‑confidence.

· Sleep: After sex, muscles relax, blood pressure drops, and we fall asleep faster. It’s a natural sleep aid with no side effects.

3. Evolutionary trick: Why aren’t we like fish?

Unlike animals, which have a “heat” (a strictly limited time for mating), humans can have sex all year round. What for?

· Hidden ovulation: humans do not show obvious external signs of fertility. This forced our ancestors to maintain a constant sexual relationship to ensure conception. Thus, evolution established sex as a social glue.

· Care for offspring: Constant sex strengthened the pair. And a strong pair is two adults who together obtain food and protect children who are born completely helpless (compared to foals or lambs). Without sex as a “glue,” the male could have left to look for another female, but oxytocin and pleasure kept him close.

4. Social bonds and communication

Sex is the language that bodies speak when words are powerless.

· Vulnerability: At the moment of intimacy, we bare not only our bodies but also our souls. This is an act of trust. Allowing someone to touch your most intimate areas means saying: “I trust you.”

· Conflict resolution: Couples often use sex as a way to reconcile. This is not manipulation, but a biological way to “reboot” the emotional state after an argument.

· Procreation (social aspect): Even if we consciously don’t want children, our subconscious mind is looking for the best possible genetic partner. The smell (pheromones), the symmetry of the face, the timbre of the voice — we read this on an unconscious level so that our hypothetical children would be healthier.

5. Health of the cardiovascular system

Sex is cardio. No, it won't replace a treadmill, but it will actively engage the heart and lungs.

 The pulse rate during orgasm reaches 110-140 beats per minute.

· This trains the blood vessels and improves blood microcirculation in the pelvic area (which helps prevent prostatitis in men and congestion in women).

· In men, regular ejaculation reduces the risk of prostate cancer by approximately 20–30% (according to Harvard research).

Masturbation (autosuggestion) is also part of our sexual nature. It is a way to:

 

· Understand your erogenous zones.

· Relieve accumulated tension without risks (such as STDs or unwanted pregnancy).
· Improve the quality of couple’s sex because you know what you like and can guide your partner..
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7. Emotional depth: ecstasy and trance.
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At the moment of a strong orgasm, the brain shuts down the areas responsible for fear and self‑control (the prefrontal cortex). A person enters a state of “here and now” — this is similar to meditation or a flow state.

 

· This is the only legal way to experience a state of euphoria comparable to the effects of hard drugs, but without the devastating consequences.
· It gives a sense of the fullness of life. When we grow old, many regret not that they didn’t work enough, but that they loved and felt each other less.

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What if there’s no sex?

 

We won’t die from a lack of sex (unlike from a lack of water or air). But the quality of life declines.

 

· The level of anxiety rises.
· Tactile sensitivity decreases (the skin “is starving”).

· Irritability and aggression may appear (unfulfilled sexual energy seeks an outlet).

· Men are at increased risk of stagnant prostatitis..

· Women experience a decrease in the elasticity of vaginal tissues (age‑related changes accelerate)..

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However, it is important to understand: sec