It’s not uncommon for people to go through a “dry spell” in their sex lives. Sometimes it lasts for a few weeks, while for others, it can stretch on for months—or even years. Work stress, lifestyle changes, mental fatigue, or even global events like the pandemic can all play a role in reducing intimacy.
But while most people associate the lack of sex with emotional or relationship strain, science shows that the effects go far deeper. Your body and mind can undergo measurable physiological changes when you stop having sex. From your heart health to your stress levels, your hormones, and even your immune system, sexual inactivity can influence more aspects of your wellbeing than you might imagine.
Here are 7 surprising effects experts have identified when you stop having sex — plus what you can do if you’re starting to notice these changes in your own body.
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1. Your Stress Levels Rise and Mood Becomes More Unstable
Sex doesn’t just feel good — it’s a natural stress reliever. According to Dr. Debra W. Soh, a neuropsychologist and sex researcher, sexual activity helps the brain release a surge of endorphins — chemicals often called “happy hormones.” These endorphins, along with oxytocin and dopamine, promote calmness, bonding, and emotional stability.
When you stop having sex, your body misses out on these powerful mood-regulating hormones. The result? You may feel more irritable, restless, and find it harder to relax after a stressful day.
People who previously relied on sex as a form of emotional release might particularly feel the effects, noticing more frequent mood swings or anxiety. Although exercise, mindfulness, and good sleep can help compensate, they don’t fully replicate the unique neurochemical benefits that sexual intimacy provides.
2. You Might Find It Harder to Fall Asleep or Sleep Deeply
There’s a clear link between sexual activity and better sleep quality. After orgasm, the body releases several hormones — oxytocin, prolactin, and dopamine — which together promote relaxation, satisfaction, and a sense of calm that helps you drift into deep sleep.
Dr. Phil Stieg, a neurologist from Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York, explains that the drop in these hormones when you’re sexually inactive can make it harder to achieve restorative sleep. Without the natural sedative effect of oxytocin and prolactin, many people find themselves tossing and turning at night, feeling less rested even after several hours in bed.
Poor sleep, in turn, worsens stress, irritability, and even weight management — showing how interconnected sexual health and overall wellbeing truly are.
3. Your Blood Pressure May Increase
Sex is, in many ways, a workout. During arousal and orgasm, your heart rate increases, your circulation improves, and your body experiences a moderate cardiovascular boost.
A 2006 study published in Biological Psychology found that people who had regular sexual activity tended to have lower blood pressure than those who didn’t. The physical exertion combined with emotional satisfaction can reduce stress-induced spikes in blood pressure and help stabilise the cardiovascular system over time.
If you stop having sex for a long period, your body may lose some of these benefits. The absence of this natural stress release can make you more reactive to everyday pressures, increasing heart rate and blood pressure — factors linked to a higher risk of hypertension and heart disease.
4. You May Be at Higher Risk of Heart Problems
In 2010, the American Journal of Cardiology published a study showing that men who had sex at least twice a week had almost half the risk of developing heart disease compared to those who engaged in sex less frequently.
Regular sex is linked with stronger emotional bonds, reduced cortisol (the stress hormone), and improved circulation — all of which protect heart health. When sex becomes infrequent, especially in middle-aged men, the heart misses out on this combination of physical exercise and hormonal balance that helps regulate cardiovascular function.
5. Erectile Function May Decline Over Time
The saying “use it or lose it” rings true when it comes to male sexual function. Research from the American Journal of Medicine suggests that men aged 50–70 who rarely have sex are significantly more likely to experience erectile dysfunction (ED) than those who maintain an active sex life.
Sexual activity helps maintain blood flow and nerve function in the penis. When that stimulation is absent for a long time, the smooth muscle tissues and blood vessels in the penis can gradually lose their elasticity and responsiveness.
The good news is that sexual health can often be restored with the right approach. Even regular ejaculation through masturbation can help maintain blood circulation and preserve erectile function. But if you’re noticing persistent changes — such as weaker erections or reduced sexual desire — it may be a sign of underlying hormonal imbalance or vascular issues that should be addressed by a specialist.
6. Risk of Prostate Cancer Might Increase
Several studies have shown a potential connection between frequent ejaculation and a lower risk of prostate cancer. Men who ejaculate 4–7 times a week may be better protected against prostate problems.
Scientists believe that regular ejaculation helps flush out toxins and inflammatory substances from the prostate gland, improving circulation and reducing the likelihood of abnormal cell growth.
On the other hand, prolonged sexual inactivity might allow harmful compounds to build up in the prostate. Maintaining a balanced sexual life, whether with a partner or through masturbation, can therefore be beneficial for long-term prostate health.
7. Your Immune System Could Weaken
Sex is often called “nature’s medicine” — and for good reason. Researchers from Wilkes University in the U.S. discovered that individuals who had sex one or two times a week had significantly higher levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) — an antibody that strengthens the immune system and helps protect against common colds and infections.
When you stop having sex, these protective antibody levels can drop, leaving you more susceptible to illnesses. Sex not only boosts immunity but also supports mental resilience, helping your body fend off stress-related inflammation.
When Lack of Sex Leads to Low Libido or Erectile Dysfunction
While short breaks from sexual activity are perfectly normal, long-term sexual inactivity can sometimes contribute to or worsen conditions like low libido or erectile dysfunction (ED) — particularly in men over 30.
Low libido (reduced sexual desire) can be caused by a mix of physical and psychological factors — hormonal imbalance, poor sleep, stress, depression, or even low self-esteem. Meanwhile, ED, the difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection, is often related to poor blood circulation, nerve sensitivity, or declining testosterone levels.
A man who stops having sex for extended periods may notice that arousal becomes more difficult or that he feels less interested in intimacy overall. This isn’t just “in your head” — it’s a biological chain reaction. Lower sexual activity leads to reduced testosterone stimulation, and over time, this can create a feedback loop where the body stops producing optimal levels of sex hormones, further diminishing libido and performance.
How Menscape Clinic Can Help Men Regain Sexual Vitality
If you’ve noticed a drop in your sexual desire, energy levels, or performance, you’re not alone — and it’s absolutely treatable. Menscape Clinic, one of Thailand’s leading men’s health clinics, specialises in helping men overcome issues like low libido, erectile dysfunction, and hormonal imbalance through science-backed medical treatments.
At Menscape Clinic, experts understand that sexual health is more than just physical performance — it’s closely tied to mental wellbeing, confidence, and overall vitality. Their comprehensive approach typically includes:
1. Hormonal Assessment and Testosterone Therapy
Declining testosterone levels are one of the most common causes of low libido and ED in men. Menscape Clinic offers precise hormone testing and Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), which can restore balance, improve mood, and enhance sexual function.
2. Shock Wave Therapy for ED
This non-invasive treatment uses low-intensity acoustic waves to stimulate new blood vessel growth in the penis, improving blood flow and restoring natural erectile function. It’s a modern, clinically proven solution that helps men achieve stronger and longer-lasting erections — without the need for medication.
3. Penile Enhancement and PRP Therapy
For men looking to enhance confidence and improve sensation, Menscape also offers penile filler treatments and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy, both designed to rejuvenate penile tissue and improve overall function safely and effectively.
4. Lifestyle and Stress Management Guidance
Beyond medical treatments, Menscape’s specialists provide tailored advice on nutrition, exercise, and mental wellness. Addressing root causes — like stress, sleep issues, or emotional fatigue — ensures long-term results and a more fulfilling intimate life.
Menscape Clinic takes a confidential, professional, and empathetic approach to men’s health. Every treatment is tailored to the individual, ensuring comfort, privacy, and optimal outcomes for each client.
Final Thoughts
Sexual activity is far more than a physical act — it’s a cornerstone of human health. When you stop having sex, your body responds in many subtle ways: stress levels rise, sleep quality drops, blood pressure increases, and even your immune system weakens. For men, long-term sexual inactivity may lead to issues like low libido, erectile dysfunction, or increased risk of prostate and heart problems.
However, none of these conditions are irreversible. By paying attention to your body’s signals and seeking help from professionals like Menscape Clinic, you can restore your hormonal balance, revive your confidence, and reclaim your sexual wellbeing.
Healthy intimacy begins with healthy self-care — and with the right medical support, getting back to a more vibrant and satisfying sex life is entirely within reach.
