Life has its natural ups and downs, and your sex life is no exception. It’s not unusual for weeks—or even months—to pass without intimacy, especially when life gets busy. But what many people don’t realize is that long periods of sexual inactivity may do more than leave you feeling disconnected or frustrated—it might actually be hurting your health.
Why does it matter? According to new research from NapLab, the average American only has sex once per week. At first glance, that might seem like a decent average, but some experts believe that not being intimate often enough can lead to negative consequences—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally, too.
You might be wondering why anyone should care what goes on in the bedroom, but there’s more to sex than pleasure. In fact, skipping out on physical intimacy for too long can affect your mood, your ability to manage stress, and even your immune system. Research suggests that celibacy, especially when it’s not by choice, is linked to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and mood instability.
A group of Scottish researchers found that people who had not had sex for a while were less equipped to handle stressful situations. In particular, they noted that abstinent individuals struggled more with public speaking and other anxiety-triggering events compared to those who had been sexually active at least once in the previous two weeks.
Dr. Sham Singh, a psychiatrist and sexual health specialist, emphasizes that ignoring or suppressing sexual desires—especially without finding other ways to release stress—can lead to a buildup of frustration, increased anxiety, and irritability. “Sexual expression is a natural form of emotional and physical relief,” Dr. Singh explained. “When that’s taken away, and nothing replaces it, the mind and body start to feel the tension.”
Interestingly, it’s not just about mental health. Skipping sex can also mean missing out on some surprising immune system benefits. A study from Wilkes-Barre University in Pennsylvania found that people who had sex once or twice a week had 30% higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A, which plays a critical role in defending the body against infections and viruses. Those who had little to no sex didn’t enjoy this same immune-boosting effect.
The topic of how long-term sexual inactivity affects overall well-being gained even more attention during the COVID-19 pandemic. During lockdowns and periods of isolation, many people experienced significant changes in their sex lives—some due to fear, others because of separation or emotional strain. A 2021 study involving 4,000 individuals found that those who remained sexually active throughout the pandemic reported lower levels of anxiety, while those who abstained entirely reported higher stress levels.
This phenomenon may be explained by the role of endorphins—chemicals released in the brain that are known to reduce pain and promote feelings of happiness. During sex, the body experiences a surge of these natural feel-good chemicals, with endorphin levels spiking by up to 200%. It’s a physiological reaction that helps explain why sex is often associated with better sleep, improved mood, and even greater emotional connection.
Dr. Singh also pointed out that extended periods without sex can result in noticeable physical symptoms. “When sexual release is absent,” he noted, “both men and women may experience increased muscle tension, a sense of restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and heightened sensitivity to touch. These are all physical signs of unmet needs or hormonal imbalances.”
He went on to say that a lack of sexual activity over time can impact core functions such as sleep quality, energy levels, and even appetite. These effects are largely due to shifts in hormone levels—specifically testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. “Some people report feeling more fatigued,” Dr. Singh explained, “because sex can actually serve as a great way to wind down, reduce anxiety, and fall asleep faster, largely due to the release of oxytocin during orgasm.”
Interestingly, this isn’t just an issue for older adults. A growing number of young people are also reporting less interest in sex or avoiding it altogether. Recent studies show a concerning trend in younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z. According to the National Survey of Family Growth, the rate of sexlessness among adults aged 22 to 34 is rising. Among that age group, 10% of men and 7% of women report that they’re still virgins.
An analysis by the Institute for Family Studies highlighted this trend, noting that “for young adult males, sexlessness has roughly doubled across all measures over the last 10 years. For young adult females, it has risen by about 50%.” That’s a dramatic increase, and it has experts wondering what social, cultural, or psychological factors may be contributing to this shift.
One possibility is the change in relationship dynamics. A previous study by Pew Research found that a record 25% of Americans under 40 have never been married. Many of these individuals are also living alone. As fewer people are forming long-term partnerships in early adulthood, sexual frequency naturally declines. Additionally, the rise of digital distractions, declining mental health, and even economic stress may all play a role in reducing interest or opportunity for intimacy.
While everyone has their own preferences and comfort levels when it comes to sex, it’s important not to ignore the broader effects that sexual activity—or the lack of it—can have on your body and mind. Whether you’re in a relationship or single, being aware of how sex ties into your health may help you make more informed decisions about your overall well-being.
So, while it’s perfectly normal to go through dry spells, experts say that understanding the mental and physical consequences of long-term abstinence can help you better care for yourself. Sex isn’t just about connection or pleasure—it’s also about maintaining a balance in both your emotional and physical health.
