How does sex affect a relationship?

Im in an amazing relationship right now and we have decided to take it slow because of our situation. We finally kissed on our third date last weekend and the next night it started to heat up but our self control kicked in, so we are still on the leisurely pace (which is a good thing for both of us). However, I want to give it to her in the best way possible because she is simply irresistible and my willpower is wearing dangerously thin. Plus, it feels like this is the best way to get as close as possible to another person.

In the past I have been in relationships that start off way too fast and tend to revolve around sex, which has not been the healthiest type of relationship for me because it turns out that I am a horn dog.