Do have sex…
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1. When you have got A Headache
It might be time to think of a new excuse! US neurologists have discovered sex can actually relieve the pain of a migraine, possibly as a result of the endorphins (natural painkillers) that are released during sex. But do not ditch the acetaminophen just yet. Sex may be a fun way of relieving a stress related headache but for a small number of people there is also the change that orgasm can trigger what is known as benign coital headache and do not ignore a persistent headache – always get it checked out by your doctor.
2. Before a sports event
It is widely held belief that sex the night before a sporting event can harm your performance. However, recent suggests that gentle sexual activity can actually sharpen you competitive edge, making you feel relaxed, increasing self-confidence and improving psychological attitude. In male athletes, testosterone levels are also raised in the short term, increasing competitiveness and focus. However, remember that a good night is sleep is vital preparation for a big sporting event. Too much or too vigorous sexual activity means you run the risk of depleting valuable energy stores.
3. If you feeling low
A US study has found that semen can act as an antidepressant. The study of 293 women found that those who did not use condoms were a lot less likely to feel depressed than those who did, reportedly due to the mood-altering hormones in semen, such as testosterone and prostaglandin.
4. Before a job interview
Psychologists at the University Of Paisley in Scotland have found that having sex before a big event such as a job interview can reduce your stress levels. Sex can be one of the best stress relievers. As well as releasing feel-good chemical to calm your nerves, it makes you feel close to your partner and boosts self-esteem.
5. During a commercial break
Don not worry if your sex sessions do not last all night, a major study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine has found that the best sex actually lasts or less than 15 minutes. Research has brought to light the ideal length of time for penetrative sex. Between seven and 13 minutes was seen as most ‘desirable’, and even three minutes was deemed ‘adequate’. But do not get too hung up on time-keeping.
Do not have sex…
1. Before a smear test
While semen won’t affect your smear result or a nurse’s or doctor is ability to perform a smear, using spermicides, condoms or lubricants can be problematic and, if you use them, you should hold off sex for 24 hours before your test.
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2. After a massage
A sensual massage with your partner may well help to get you in the mood but if you are using condoms, save the sex for later. Oil-based products, including massage oils and baby oils, can weaken and dissolve latex rubber, making your condom less effective and more likely to tear. Keep the massage as a separate event or try condom which are made from a synthetic resin and are safe to use with massage oil.
3. So soon after giving birth
Although doctors now say you can have sex as soon as you feel ready after giving birth, it is important not to rush things. It can be week or month until you feel like having sex again. This is usually due to exhaustion, but your body also needs time to recover, especially if you have had stitches, which may be painful.
4. If you often bleed during sex
Spotting after you are had intercourse can be due to many different things, from a missed Pill to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or erosion of the cervix. All of these can be easily rectified but it is best to abstain from having sex until you have had them checked out by your doctor or family planning clinic. You would not want to pass on an STI unknowingly or, if it is because you have missed a Pill, end up with an unplanned pregnancy. It might even be that you’re too dry or tense during sex, in which care a non-oil-based lubricant might help.
5. With foreign condoms
If you are planning a romantic holiday, do not forget to take condoms with you or you risk coming home with unwanted souvenir. Condoms are a suitcase essential. It is better to bring them from home as condoms bought abroad do not always meet certain standards. Heat can adversely affect condoms, so make sure you store them in a cool, dry place, such as the bedside cabinet in your hotel room, and do not let them come into contact with suntan cream or after-sun, which can weaken the rubber.
