People Have Been Having Less Sex

Whether They’re Teenagers or 40-somethings

How often do you have sex? If you don't have a partner and are dealing with what it means to date and have sexual relationships in the pandemic era, this can be an interesting question. But regardless of your relationship status or COVID-19, the quality of your sex life is a part of your health.

In this study, researchers surveyed nearly 10,000 adults ages 18 to 44 about their frequency of sex and the number of sexual partners they had. The study took nearly two decades of data, from 2000 to 2018. Its results.

Sexual Frequency Study Finds Surprising Numbers

In the study, researchers surveyed nearly 10,000 adults aged 18 to 44 about their frequency of sex and the number of sexual partners they had. The study took nearly two decades of data, from 2014 to 2019. The results:

• From 2014 to 2016, 19 percent of men ages 18 to 24 reported no sexual activity within the previous year - that rose to 31% by 2016 to 2018. Nearly one in five women (19 percent) reported no sexual activity between 2014 and 2016.
• From 2018 to 2019,71% and 69% of married men and women, respectively, reported having sex weekly. From 2018 to 2019, that percentage dropped to 48% and 51% of married men and their partners, respectively, having sex weekly.

Why Are Teens Still Having So Little Sex in Their 40s?

Why are the numbers declining? There are several explanations as to why more people are not having sex. It could be a busy work schedule, which for some is more of a struggle than a necessity for their partner; or the fact that we have our heads buried in our technological devices, etc., which can keep you focused on the screen - and not the partner next to you. In addition, the gradual increase in anxiety and depression among young people, the rejection of casual physical contact by women, and the role of smartphones in influencing communication in today's society are all factors that influence young people to have less sex.

The Impact of Covid-19 on Sexual Behavior

Keep in mind that this study was started with data as of 2014 - meaning that it was before the pandemic. And COVID-19 may not help people form new intimate relationships. Measures of social distance and general anxiety about person-to-person contact may make finding a partner more difficult. The study also found that men who earned less, worked part-time or were unemployed were more likely to be sexless, which is relevant today, as the current recession may only make things worse.

How Often Should You Have Sex?

• Sex is an important part of life, and we know that sexual activity can help people relax, fall asleep, reduce stress, feel intimate, and thus improve the relationship between partners - and even boost their immune systems.

• Sex can also be fun, enjoyable and joyful - a way to express yourself in a vulnerable way. At the same time sexual health is multifaceted, not only about the presence of infections or diseases, but also about the possibility of pleasure, access to bodily autonomy regarding sexuality, and the ability to have a sexual experience free from violence or coercion.

But just because sex is good for you, that doesn't mean you should have a prescribed amount of sex. What's more important, says the International Society for Sexual Medicine, is that you have sex as often as you and your partner (if you're in a relationship) are satisfied.