This is what happens after several weeks of sexual abstinence.
The brain, deprived of the euphoric chemical cocktail of intimacy, can feel on strike. Oxytocin and endorphins, known respectively as the “happiness hormone” and “natural painkiller,” act as a shield against stress. Without them, some people experience increased anxiety or low morale. Physical contact, often underestimated, remains crucial for maintaining emotional balance.
Libido: The flame goes out… or is rekindled.
Abstinence sometimes acts as a brake on desire, creating a vicious cycle where less activity leads to less desire. However, the opposite effect exists: a forced or chosen break can rekindle the flame, transforming anticipation into the driving force of desire. It all depends on whether we endure or accept this lull.
The female body: Subtle but noticeable changes.
In women, decreased natural lubrication or loss of vaginal elasticity can make resuming sexual intercourse uncomfortable. These effects, often associated with prolonged abstinence, remind us of the importance of listening to our bodies and taking the time to rebuild physical intimacy.
The male body: A threat to be reckoned with
⏬ Continued on the next page
