These “Deviant” Sex Acts Are Actually Good For You, According To Science

Something to keep in mind next time you get laid: The weirder it is, the healthier it probably is for you. Yes, that’s right: Turns out, there are a slew of “deviant” sex acts that science says are actually pretty good for you. Take, for instance, BDSM. Like, did you know that bringing some kink into the bedroom can actually benefit you psychologically? We’re not kidding. Here, we highlight five non-standard sexual behaviors that science has officially given its stamp of approval. From all the sexual deviants around the world: Thanks, science!

BDSM. Turns out, BDSM — or as we like to refer to it, the best kind of sex — is correlated with better mental health. Yes, really. A 2013 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that individuals involved in bondage, discipline, sadism and masochism scored better on indicators of mental health than those who did not bring the erotic practice into the bedroom.

BDSM. According to the study, BDSM-friendly folks are less neurotic, more open, more aware of and sensitive to rejection, and have a better overall well-being. In other words, those who get down with some kink are less anxious and paranoid, and more extroverted and open to new experiences.

BDSM. In addition, BDSM-leaning individuals are more secure in their relationships. Pro tip: Indulge in some good ol’ spanky-spank or fun role play scenarios from time to time — it’s good for the brain!

Casual sex. Casual sex is actually really good for you, according to your new favorite study. That’s right: No-strings-attached romps are healthy, so don’t let the haters (looking at you mom) stop you from gettin’ some. Anyway, let's get back to the point. So, what's the science behind this little factoid?

Casual sex. The study, conducted by researchers from NYU and Cornell, debunks the misconception that casual flings will leave you with low self-esteem and depression, TIME reports. The research found that sexually unrestricted individuals reported higher well-being after having casual sex compared to not having sex. They were also less stressed and had a great overall emotional health. #Score.

Casual sex. The study’s authors explained that “the effects of casual sex depend on the extent to which this behavior is congruent with one’s general personality tendencies.” In other words, casual sex is good for you if you do it for the right reasons and not in an effort to drown out your lack of self-worth or feelings of inadequacy. Bottom line: Just do you.

Polyamory. If you’re in an open relationship, you’re required to really dig into your emotions — honesty, openness, trust and communication are cornerstones for polyamorous relationships. This is exactly why polyamory can be good for you: If you’re in a relationship lacking any of said cornerstones, you’re not in a healthy, strong relationship.

Polyamory. Communication, then, becomes absolutely necessary when you’re in a polyamorous relationship, or if you’re thinking about getting into one. And as we’ve all heard time and time again, communication is one of the most — if not the most — important part of a relationship, whether romantic or not.

Polyamory. What’s more, in some cases consensual nonmongamy may be a more responsible choice — at least if monogamy is proving too difficult. We're talking about safe sex. As LiveScience points out, research from the University of Michigan's Moors found that people who cheat on their partners sexually are less likely to take part in safe sex while doing so than people in consensual nonmonogamous relationships. Interesting, eh?

Period sex. The health benefits of period sex certainly outweigh the mess — and we’re not just saying that, science agrees! First, it helps alleviate cramps, which can be a major plus to the ladies out there who suffer from major pain during their period. Just remember this mantra: An orgasm a day keeps the PMS away.

Period sex. There’s also less need for lube during shark week. If you’re typically on the dry side, or have a hard time generating enough wetness naturally, then period sex will likely be a sigh of relief from needing lube. We know what you’re thinking: “Ew, but it’s blood.” Not really. While yes, you are bleeding when you menstruate, most of what you’re seeing is actually the shedding of your uterine lining.

Period sex. Other perks of period sex: It can shorten the length of your period, and create greater intimacy between you and your partner. Not to mention, it’ll also force you to break out of your comfort zone in the bedroom, especially if you’re a missionary only kind of gal.

Masturbation. Is masturbation good for you? Absolutely. In fact, one should rub one out as much as possible as it not only makes you feel better, but happier as well. Orgasms release the endorphins dopamine and oxytocin, which can improve your mood and create a natural high. So in other words, masturbating also saves you money (in that you won’t need to buy some drugs for an artificial high *wink*).

Masturbation. Other pros of solo sex: it helps you sleep; it’s an awesome way to release sexual tension; and it can ease body aches and menstrual pain. Still not enough to convince you as to why you should take part of this “sin”? Next slide, please.

Masturbation. In addition to that it relieves stress and there’s really just no downsides to it, it also feels amazing. Seriously, it’s free, it can give you multiple orgasms and if you’re in a relationship, it’s a great way to mix things up with or without toys. Need we say more? We didn't think so.