Orgasms are good for the body, said Dr. Dennis Garcia, director of Health and Wellness Services, and sex provides many physical and psychological benefits.

“Despite all the taboo surrounding sex, I think it’s important for people to have a healthy attitude and approach toward sex, because if it wasn’t for sex none of us would be here,” he said.

Sex helps manage stress and anxiety, contributes to a healthy immune system and even adds an element of exercise, he said.

“The sexual activity increases a person’s heart rate, burns calories and can be moderate form of cardiovascular exercise,” said Garcia.

Dr. Laurie Smith-Nelson, WSU psychology professor, said the context of sex is incredibly important. Sex is beneficial and enjoyable when it’s healthy and consensual.

“We have evolved to be sexual creatures and to seek that and want that,” she said. “But of course it doesn’t decrease stress if the sexual experience that you have adds stress.”

Positive sexual experiences produce stress reducing and relaxing neurotransmitters and endorphins that improve a person’s mood. However, if that person’s participation is stressful due to pressure, guilt or anxiety, then their experience may be the opposite.

“It’s impossible to separate psychological and physical,” said Smith-Nelson. “The physical benefits of sex have a psychological component.”

Brenda Saltzer, CEO of WISH Medical in Moscow, said in the past the philosophy of sex was strictly physical; by using birth control and condoms people were assumed to be protected. Conversely, society as a whole has learned that’s not the case.

“There’s a lot of baggage with that, not just STDs and unplanned pregnancy, but heartache (and) isolation,” said Saltzer. “You know- the bad side to something that should be really good.”

Garcia said people often opt for casual sex, which is entering into relationships strictly for the benefit of sex. Many times people do so in order to minimize emotional attachments and this can be harmful for some, he said.

“A lot of times casual sex often contributes to misunderstandings in relationships and expectations,” said Garcia. “Not to say the least it can spread or contribute to sexually transmitted infections.”

Saltzer said people are missing out on the other important parts linked with sex when participating in casual encounters.

“Sex is great when you’re connecting with every element of sex – the physical, the emotional, the intellectual, the social,” she said.

Intercourse should be the best and greatest experience of intimacy between two people, said Saltzer.

Smith-Nelson wants people to know it’s OK to talk about sex and to explore your sexuality.

“The benefit of understanding and exploring your sexuality is that it’s in an important thing to be in synch with in a long-term relationship,” she said.

It’s important to understand not everyone has the same level of interest, need and desire for sexuality, Smith-Nelson said.

Garcia also agrees conversation about intercourse is vital.

“Having an open attitude or an open willingness to discuss with your partner your needs and working to achieve that, I think can be the most satisfying,” he said.

Garcia said the sexual portion of our body is a part that needs to be used, with benefits for both males and females.

However, he said it’s important to keep things in moderation and in balance, just like other aspects of life. Yes, a person can have too much sex, Garcia said.  Sex can lead to overuse injuries and urinary tract infections in women.

“Too much of a good thing is usually too much, whether it’s sex, alcohol or exercise,” said Garcia.