Intro to the Science of Pheromones
Animals and humans use pheromones to communicate with one another non-verbally. These chemicals often affect the way they choose their partners and even their social behaviors. For humans, pheromones are often detected through smell produced in sweat, saliva, and urine [1]. Men and women produce and release a pheromone called androstenol, which can affect their desirability [1]. Although women produce androstenol at a rate less than men, they also produce a second pheromone called couplin [1]. Couplin is known to correlate based on a woman’s menstrual cycle [1].
Overall, the level of pheromones a person produces may influence not only their sexual behavior but also their sexual motivation [1]. For instance, people with higher pheromones may feel more confident and are more likely to bond with others [1]. Additionally, higher pheromones can make people appear more attractive [1]. This can be correlated to “love at first sight,” where an instant attraction could be attributed to a reaction to one’s pheromones [1]. Furthermore, a strong dislike for someone upon first meeting them could also be your body telling you that the person is not a genetically favorable match [1]. Therefore, it’s no surprise that pheromones are associated with rewards and feelings of love.
The Power of Love & Pheromones on Health
Relationships, whether romantic or platonic, hold a significant power over our mental and physical well-being. For instance, strong and secure relationships are often linked to improved immune systems, higher self-esteem, and lower rates of depression and anxiety [2]. Furthermore, people can even benefit from healthy non-romantic relationships. For instance, loneliness can be a risk factor for depression and can even lead to higher blood pressure and disrupted sleep [2]. Therefore, it’s important to build stimulating social interactions that provide support and engagement. Additionally, these positive outcomes may be influenced by the exchange of pheromones during intimate interactions, which fosters feelings of trust, affection, and emotional connection. Thus, understanding the intricate interplay between pheromones and relationships sheds light on the holistic nature of human health and well-being.
When it comes to health IT, understanding the role of pheromones and social relationships is essential to care. For instance, patients who have strong and healthy connections with one another often motivate each other to maintain healthy behaviors [3]. Furthermore, family members can provide emotional support and even assist in managing chronic conditions [3]. Therefore, health plans must be developed depending on a person’s availability of support. Furthermore, patient support groups can benefit patients who are struggling with managing their conditions. By recognizing factors such as pheromones and a patient’s social support network of family and peers, health IT can play a crucial role in delivering personalized care.
HITS
HITS provides management services and collaborates with clinicians in the development of health informatics. We provide tools that promote safe, timely, patient-centered, and equitable care. Our agency culture and mission facilitate customer and human-centered design. Additionally, we tailor software and project management support products to meet our customer’s needs. HITS also focuses on transforming health care by analyzing integrated medical solutions and evaluating information systems. Our goal is to enhance individual and population health outcomes, improve patient care, and strengthen the clinician-patient relationship. Finally, HITS expands the ability for individuals to safely and securely contribute relevant and usable electronic health information and define preferences and values to their clinicians.
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