Researchers in 2010 found that acute s*xual experience increased circulating corticosterone levels and the number of new neurons in the hippocampus. Chronic s*xual experience no longer produced an increase in corticosterone levels but continued to promote adult neurogenesis and stimulate the growth of dendritic spines and dendritic architecture.⁠ ⁠ Chronic sexual experience also reduced anxiety-like behavior. These findings suggested that a rewarding experience not only buffers against the deleterious actions of early elevated glucocorticoids but also promotes neuronal growth and reduces anxiety.⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #science #biology #corticosterone #hippocampus #brain