Contrary to popular fantasy, good sex doesn't need to last for hours — in fact, it only needs to last for a few minutes, according to a survey of US and Canadian therapists.
The study
A group of psychologists, physicians, social workers, marriage/family therapists and nurses were surveyed by researchers at Penn State Erie, Pennsylvania, USA, and their responses to a range of questions about the desirable amount of time intercourse should last were averaged.
The long and the short of it
All-night sex is a myth! Or at least good all-night sex is a myth! The results showed that the desirable amount of time from penetration to ejaculation was seven to 13 minutes — and if you last from 10 to 30 minutes it's "too long"!
"Today's popular culture has reinforced stereotypes about sexual activity. Many men and women seem to believe the fantasy model of large penises, rock-hard erections and all-night-long intercourse," said the researchers. In fact, despite the researchers findings, past studies have found that people were holding onto that all-night lovemaking fantasy, with a large percentage of both men and women saying they wanted sex to last for 30 minutes or longer. This new study shows that perceptions have finally shifted.
Sexual healing
Lead author of the study and associate professor of psychology, Eric Corty, said expecting or wanting sex to last longer than 30 minutes is setting yourself up for disappointment. "This seems a situation ripe for dissatisfaction," said Corty. "With this survey we hope to dispel such fantasies and encourage men and women with realistic data about acceptable sexual intercourse, thus preventing sexual disappointments and dysfunctions."
As well as setting the record straight about the amount of time it takes to have good, pleasurable sex, the research could also help treat people with existing sexual problems. "If a patient is concerned about how long intercourse should last, this data can help shift the patient away from concern about physical disorders and to be initially treated with counselling, instead of medicine," said Corty.
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