How long should sex last? Experts weigh in
Have you ever wondered how long the ideal sexual intercourse should last? Of course, we have individual ideas and expectations on this topic. However, research results may surprise many.
4 July 2024 15:34
Sex is an essential element of almost every relationship. It is worth discussing it openly to understand your partner's needs. Expectations regarding the duration of intercourse can vary. Many people believe that the longer the intercourse lasts, the better. However, this is not always true.
Dr. Sonia Maya, a sexual therapist from Philadelphia, decided to investigate how long an ideal intercourse should last. She published her observations on TikTok. The results of research conducted by sexologists surprised her followers.
How long does sexual intercourse usually last?
Dr. Maya points out that men are usually able to maintain an erection for several minutes before ejaculation occurs. She also notes that from an evolutionary standpoint, quick intercourse and earlier erections are advantageous because sperm spreads more effectively in this way.
Many men fear premature ejaculation. However, as the video's author emphasises, it is entirely normal if it happens within five minutes.
- The proper definition of premature ejaculation ends at one minute or even less - she explained.
She added that premature ejaculation cannot be delayed or controlled. Various factors, including stress, can cause it.
Clarisa Guerrer, a nurse from Texas, says the same.
- Some couples claim that their encounters last an hour or longer, but neither person reaches orgasm. In reality, even 50 percent of men don't last longer than two minutes - she stated in a video she posted on social media.
How long should sex last?
Research on the duration of sexual intercourse has been conducted multiple times. According to a survey conducted in 2008, the most "desired" intercourse lasts from 7 to 13 minutes. However, it is worth noting that this time does not include foreplay.
Data published in 2019 by the National Institutes of Health indicate that men need an average of 5 to 7 minutes to reach orgasm. A year later, another study showed that women most often experience orgasm in the 13th minute of intercourse.
According to doctors and sexual therapists, many people live under the impression that sex should last as long as possible. Talking about the actual duration of intercourse can help eliminate the pressure often imposed on the partner and make intimate life more satisfying.