Sustained physical activity can have consequences on sexuality.
Playing sports at the level is not insignificant on sexuality and libido. Even if regular physical activity makes you feel more desirable, intense physical activity can on the contrary reduce sexual desire, both in women and in men.
The impact of intensive sport on women
Regular intensive training, especially in running or endurance sports, can cause thinness and menstrual cycle disorders that result in an absence of periods.
However, these hormonal disturbances have very important consequences on the secretion of endorphin and prolactin, important hormones of the female libido.
What about in humans?
In humans, the results of studies are more mixed. Even if they are not subject to a hormonal cycle, the influence of excess physical activity on testosterone is most likely involved in a drop in libido, particularly in top athletes.
Moderation is key
Fortunately, the consequences of sport on sexuality are not always negative. The studies that have shown a drop in libido in athletes always concern high-level sport and significant weight loss.
Quite the contrary, the regular practice of a physical activity, in a moderate way, associated with a balanced diet, helps to feel better in its skin, to have a good self-esteem, and finally a better libido.
In case of consequences of sports activity on menstrual cycles or sexuality, it is best to consult a doctor.
Source: Endurance Exercise Training and Male Sexual Libido. Hackney AC, Lane AR, Register-Mihalik J, O?leary CB. Med Sci Sports Exercise. 2017 Jul;49(7):1383-1388. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000001235.
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