Let’s Talk Sex | What’s the Average Time for Sex? The Truth About Duration – News18

Sex may permeate our popular culture, but conversations about it are still associated with stigma and shame in Indian households. As a result, most individuals dealing with sexual health issues or trying to find information about sex often resort to unverified online sources or follow the unscientific advice of their friends. To address the widespread misinformation about sex, News18.com is running this weekly sex column, titled ‘Let’s Talk Sex’. We hope to initiate conversations about sex through this column and address sexual health issues with scientific insight and nuance.

This article sheds light on myths regarding sex duration and offers ways to make intimacy more enjoyable and lasting.

Average Sex Duration is one of the most common topics people have about sex. The truth is, there’s a lot of misinformation and unrealistic expectations out there thanks to movies and TV. The reality is quite different. Studies show that sex lasts around 5 to 13 minutes on average for most couples. But here’s the thing: that number doesn’t really matter. What matters most is that you and your partner feel satisfied and connected. Some of the best sex can happen in just a few minutes. Some of the worst sex can drag on for over half an hour.

Defining the Average Time for Sex

Defining the average time for sex ultimately comes down to you and your partner(s). Studies show a range of 3 to 13 minutes is common for heterosexual penetrative sex, but that doesn’t account for foreplay, non-penetrative acts, or personal preferences. Foreplay like kissing, touching, and oral sex can add another 5-15 minutes. Don’t forget foreplay – it’s important for arousal and pleasure for all parties involved. Non-penetrative sex like mutual masturbation or sensual massage can be just as enjoyable and last anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes.

Your personal preferences matter most. Some couples prefer quickies while others set aside hours for intimacy. As with many things, quality over quantity. Focus on what feels good for you and your partner(s) rather than worrying about averages or meeting unrealistic societal pressures regarding duration. Sex should be enjoyable, so take as much or as little time as you need.

If you do want to last longer, here are some tips:

• Masturbate beforehand: Ejaculating a few hours before sex can make you last longer.
• Change positions: Switching positions throughout sex can make you last longer.
• Start and stop: Pulling out for a few seconds can delay ejaculation.
• Try edging: Masturbating until just before ejaculation then stopping can train you to last longer.
• Use condoms: Condoms slightly reduce sensation which may help you last longer.Remember, every person’s body and needs are different. Focus on intimacy, communication, and mutual pleasure rather than putting pressure on yourself or your partner to perform in a certain way or for a certain length of time.

Factors That Influence Sex Duration

The duration of sex can vary wildly from encounter to encounter and person to person. Several factors influence how long you and your partner spend getting intimate.

Level of arousal: How turned on you both are plays a major role. The more aroused you become, the longer it may take to reach climax. Engaging in plenty of foreplay, dirty talk, fantasizing and other arousal techniques before intercourse can prolong the experience.

Position and technique: Some positions and sex acts may heighten arousal or make it more difficult to orgasm, lengthening sexy time. For example, lying face to face, with plenty of kissing and eye contact, may be more intimate but reduce stimulation. Trying tantric sex, where you slow down movements to build energy, can also extend duration.

Experience: How familiar you and your partner are with each other’s preferences and bodies affects duration. Over time, you get better at reading one another’s cues, finding erogenous zones, and engaging in the types of touch that drive each other wild. But with a new partner, it may take longer to figure out how best to please each other.

Mood and environment: Your state of mind and surroundings play a role too. Feeling relaxed, uninhibited and open in a comfortable setting without distractions leads to better focus on the pleasure and passion. Stress, anxiety, self-consciousness or an unsuitable environment may make it harder to stay present in the moment.

Medical factors: Some medications or health conditions can also impact duration. For example, antidepressants are known to potentially reduce libido or delay ejaculation. Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation or delayed ejaculation may shorten or prolong sex. Discussing any medication side effects or health issues with your doctor can help address them.

Prioritising Quality Over Quantity

When it comes to sex, don’t get hung up on numbers. Some sessions may be shorter, some longer – either is perfectly normal and OK. Rather than clock-watching, focus on quality over quantity. Prioritizing quality means making the time you do have meaningful. Some ways to do this:

• Focus on foreplay. Take time exploring each other’s bodies with your hands and mouths. Foreplay helps increase arousal and leads to more pleasurable sex for both partners.
• Communicate: Talk to your partner about what they enjoy and what feels good for you. Discuss trying new positions or activities you’re both interested in. Speaking up about your desires leads to better sexual experiences.
• Slow down: There’s no need to rush, so take deep breaths and move slowly. Make eye contact, kiss passionately, and touch sensually. Enjoy the journey rather than rushing towards the destination.
• Use toys or props: Adding some extra stimulation with a vibrator, massage oil or role play can help increase pleasure and connection. Sex toys allow you to discover new sensations together.
• Prioritise orgasms: Make your partner’s pleasure a priority by engaging in activities you know they enjoy. While orgasms aren’t the only marker of a good sexual experience, giving each other this gift can strengthen your bond.

In the end, don’t get too caught up in averages or what’s ‘normal’. Every sexual encounter is different, so focus on what feels good for you and your partner. Communicating your desires will ensure you’re both enjoying the experience, whatever the duration. Make the time meaningful by communicating openly, engaging in foreplay, slowing down and prioritizing pleasure. When you connect on this deeper level, the quality of your sex life will improve greatly. Sex should never feel like a chore or something that needs to be rushed through. Take your time, Savor the experience, and make the most of every sensual moment. The duration doesn’t matter as long as you’re both enjoying the ride!