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Published January 08, 2015
Dear Dr. Yvonne, What does a lack of sex do to somebody? Would we die? Rich
Dear Rich, While this would seem like a simple question, it's actually quite complicated, depending on your belief system. A person's reasons for not having sex can play a huge part in how their mind-body-soul responds to a chronic state of abstinence. Religious figures who practice celibacy to a tee, for example, may live long, healthy lives in part because they feel a great spiritual reward for this earthly sacrifice.
Different philosophical and religious perspectives on how the world works are all going to have a different answer for you. The Taoists, for example, believe that it is harmful for a man to practice total celibacy. They hold that this actually creates a strong desire for sex, which results in an imbalance of energy, vitality, and spirit. In their view, it could also cause a loss of sexual essence and energy through increased wet dreams (and, according to their belief system, semen should not be wasted "recklessly"). So really, you see, the choice of life or death is really up to you.
Dr. Yvonne KristAn Fulbright is a sex educator, relationship expert, columnist and founder of
She is the author of several books including, "Touch Me There! A Hands-On Guide to Your Orgasmic Hot Spots."
https://www.foxnews.com/health/sexpert-qa-would-we-die-without-sex