How Sex Helps with Crohn's

Crohn's and Colitis patients have many things to worry about.  One of these problems that a lot of people worry about is sex.  They think that it may hurt, they worry about having a lowered sex drive, and if they've had surgery, they usually worry that potential mates won't find them attractive.  I have a colostomy, so I would fall into this last category if I wasn't already married when I had the surgery.

I usually don't have an answer for these problems other than, "You have nothing to worry about.  You'll see."  But I have found an article on MedicineNet.com that gives IBD sufferers 10 very good reasons to have sex.

1. Sex Relieves Stress - Sex lowers blood pressure, which means that you have less stress.  Sex also increases the body's level of endorphins, which reduces stress and pain.  Stress + IBD = not good.
2. Sex Boosts Immunity - Sex increases the body's production of certain antibodies that reduce the risk of infection.  Infections are never good, but We get infections much easier than most.
3. Sex Burns Calories - This one may not be all that relevant for many IBD sufferers, but more people than you might think actually have trouble losing weight, especially those who have recently had surgery.  30 minutes of sex can burn up to 85 calories.  this may not sound like much, but you will only burn around 130 calories if you go for a half hour walk.  I don't know about you, but I'd definitely prefer a half hour of sex with fewer calories burned to a half hour of walking around the block, regardless of how many calories I burned!  Having sex twice per week can actually reduce your risk of heart attack by half, as well (see #4).
4. Sex Improves Cardiovascular Health - You've got enough problems.  Do really want heart troubles, as well?  
5. Sex Boosts Self Esteem - Going to the bathroom 5 times a day and not being able to go places with your friends and family can really take a toll.  
6. Sex Improves Intimacy - Having sex releases oxytocin, also known as the love hormone.  This helps us bond with our partner and build trust, both of which will reduce stress, among other things.
7. Sex reduces Pain - As the level of oxytocin in our bodies increases, so does the level of endorphins.  Endorphins are the body's version of morphine, so when you have more, you feel better.  And no drug addictions!
8. Sex Reduces Prostate Cancer Risk - Frequent ejaculations for men in their 20s (5 or more per week) can lead to a lowered chance of prostate cancer later in life.  Insert dirty joke here.
9. Sex Strengthens Pelvic Floor Muscles - Sex can act as Kegel exercises, which work the floor of your pelvis.  This is required for anyone who has an ostomy that will eventually be reversed.  Oh, and the pelvic floor muscles are the ones that regulate the flow of urine, as well as helping the sphincter do it's thing.
10. Sex Helps You Sleep Better - The afore mentioned oxytocin also helps you fall asleep.  Not to mention that you just did a lot of work.