Here’s How Your Relationship Might Help You Heal

Hug It Out: We know that oxytocin plays an important role in bonding, managing stress, and childbirth. But recent research published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that the hormone may also have a role in healing wounds. 

The Study: Eighty heterosexual couples were given four suction-blister wounds on their arms. They were randomized to receive either daily oxytocin nasal spray or a placebo. Some of the couples completed 10-minute Partner Appreciation Tasks (PAT). Each couple recorded their daily interactions in a journal, including affection, intimacy, and conflict. They also provided saliva samples to measure levels of the stress hormone cortisol. 

The Takeaway: Couples who engaged in PAT and received oxytocin had improved wound healing — most significantly when they had daily affectionate physical touch or sexual activity. Not only that, but daily sexual activity also corresponded with lower cortisol levels. 

Keep in Mind: It’s not clear what the main driver was: oxytocin or intimacy. Plus, the study was limited to only young, healthy, heterosexual couples.