Recent research suggests there’s more to love than meets the eye – or rather, the skin. While a romantic notion, the connection between intimacy and wound healing is gaining scientific traction.
The “love hormone” oxytocin, well-known for its role in childbirth and lactation, is increasingly recognized for its potential in promoting social bonding and even speeding up tissue repair. Studies have shown it can accelerate the healing of oral ulcers likely due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Building on this, researchers at the University of Zurich investigated whether a lack of oxytocin during tense interactions between partners could be hindering wound healing – as previous research had linked hostility in couples to slower blister recovery times.
To test their theory, they recruited 80 heterosexual couples with an average age of 27. Each participant received four small wounds on their forearms using a suction device. The couples were then randomly assigned to one of four groups:
- Group 1: Oxytocin nasal spray twice daily + “Partner Appreciation Task” (PAT) three times a week – structured conversations focused on gratitude and compliments.
- Group 2: Oxytocin nasal spray twice daily, but without the PAT.
- Group 3: Placebo spray twice daily, plus the PAT.
- Group 4: Placebo spray twice daily, no PAT.
Interestingly, neither oxytocin alone nor the PAT with a placebo had any significant impact on wound healing compared to the control group receiving neither intervention. However, combining oxytocin with the PAT offered modest improvements in wound size and depth reduction.
The most compelling results emerged from couples who also engaged in physical touch or sexual activity during the study week alongside oxytocin and the PAT. Their wounds healed faster, exhibiting lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in their saliva. This suggests that natural intimacy may amplify oxytocin’s benefits beyond structured appreciation exercises.
“We see improved wound healing in the group combining [PAT] interaction and oxytocin, but that effect is much less strong than the effect for those who combine oxytocin with naturally occurring touch behavior, and even sexual or intimate behavior,” explained study leader Beate Ditzen of the University of Zurich.
She believes this highlights a crucial point: while oxytocin plays a role, positive physical interactions within relationships likely amplify its therapeutic effects.
Experts like Daryl O’Connor at the University of Leeds see promise in these findings for integrating oxytocin and relationship-building exercises into healthcare settings to promote faster recovery.
Anna Whittaker from the University of Stirling speculates that higher doses of oxytocin might be even more beneficial, particularly for older adults who often experience weakened immune systems.
The research underscores a powerful message: fostering intimacy isn’t just about emotional well-being; it could also have tangible physiological benefits, influencing how quickly our bodies heal and recover.
