Highlights
- Can you have too much sex? Truth is, it’s tough to say because we don’t know what “too much” really means.
- Experts found that frequent sexual activity doesn’t cause erectile dysfunction (ED), but you may experience physical side effects.
- The average frequency of intercourse declines with age.
- Always balance your sexual needs with the preferences of your partner.
If you ask most men if they can have too much sex, they’d probably answer, “Is there such a thing as too much?” While there’s nothing wrong with frequent intercourse or masturbation, there are some warning signs you should know about.
Is There a “Right” Sexual Frequency?
Have you ever wondered how much sex most people have? Are they getting busy four times a week, twice a month? What’s average?
Average, of course, depends on several factors, including your age. As you get older, you’re likely to have sex less frequently.
According to a global review of people’s sexual habits, published by the Bedbible Research Center, couples aged 18 to 24 have sex on average 9.1 times per month. Those between 25 and 34 do it 7.8 times a month. If you’re in the 35 to 44 age bracket, you’re most likely to make love 6.5 times in any given month. From 45 and 54, that number drops to 5.6.
Around the mid-fifties, the frequency of sex takes a plunge for most couples. Couples aged 55 to 64 are sexually active just 2.1 times per month. At 65 to 74 people, the number drops to 1.2 times a month on average. And in the most senior group analyzed, those 75 and older, the frequency of sex was at 0.3 a month.
| Couples by Age | Monthly Sex Frequency |
|---|---|
| 18-24 | 9.1 |
| 25-34 | 7.8 |
| 35-44 | 6.5 |
| 45-54 | 5.6 |
| 55-64 | 2.1 |
| 65-74 | 1.2 |
| 75+ | 0.3 |
Source: Sex Frequency Statistics, By Age Charts
When Should You Worry About Sexual Frequency?
If you’re having sex more than is typical for your age group, don’t worry. Every sexual history is different. There may be times when your libido will be high and you’ll need sexual release daily through masturbation or intercourse. As long as it’s OK for your partner, there’s nothing to worry about.
On a rare occasion, sexual activity may turn into compulsive behavior, or a sexual addiction. If you feel that sexual thoughts and activities have taken over your life and are interfering with your daily activities, it’s time to see a sex therapist.
It’s natural for sexual frequency to decline with age.
Can You Get Erectile Dysfunction (ED) From Having Too Much Sex?
To understand this question, let’s define sex as both partnered activity and solo play. After all, when you masturbate, the same mechanism of erection is involved.
If you go online, you’ll find lots of threads in which men complain about getting ED after having too much sex. But is there any truth to those claims?
Researchers have been studying the issue, and the answer was surprising. It’s the men who have little sex that are at the bigger risk of erectile dysfunction!
According to a study conducted in China, men who reported sexual activity approximately once a week had fewer erection problems compared to men who weren’t as busy in the bedroom.
What’s more, the protection against ED was higher with more frequent intercourse. The risk was lower by 63 percent for males who did it twice a week and 85 percent of those who made love three times a week
Results indicated that maintaining a regular frequency of intercourse can reduce the risk of ED for males aged 30 to 75 years.
While there’s no reason to believe that intensive sexual activity can cause ED, it’s possible to develop temporary erection problems if your penis gets sore from all the fun. Also, if your partner is expecting daily intercourse, the pressure may lead to performance anxiety, a psychological cause of ED.
Side Effects of Frequent Sex
While having sex often doesn’t cause ED, there are certain physical and emotional side effects you and your partner should know about.
The Honeymoon Syndrome
Doctors have many stories about newlyweds who return from their honeymoon with sexual health issues. Making passionate love every day (or sometimes several times a day) comes with vaginal risks, such as thrush, vaginal dryness, or urinary tract infections.
Not many people realize that there are penile risks, too. Your sexual organ can get hard, but that doesn’t mean it’s not sensitive!
The tip of the penis (the glans) is especially prone to irritation from vigorous thrusting. Sometimes men get other physical symptoms, such as soreness of the frenulum — the small strip of tissue connecting the foreskin to the shaft.
Having frequent sex can sometimes cause sexual health problems.
The Sexual Burnout
Which man doesn’t dream about long, passionate nights with a willing partner? But what if it all becomes a little too much?
A hot sexual session is a good workout, and your body may get tired from the sheer intensity of that exercise. In addition, if you’re losing sleep several times a week, you may notice an effect on your mental health in the form of higher stress levels, lower energy, and mood swings.
Individual needs change, and your partner may also experience sexual burnout. Remember to check in regularly to make sure you’re both enjoying the pace of your intimate life. If you notice that your erotic differences are a source of frustration, consult a couples counselor.
Finding Your Sweet Sexual Spot
Sexuality is so complex that it’s impossible to give a single answer to the question, “Can you have too much sex?” If your current frequency of sex or masturbation feels comfortable and your sexual partner is onboard, it’s probably fine.
Once you feel the signs of physical irritation in the genital area, it could mean you’re overdoing it and should go slow for a while. And if you or your partner notice that frequent sex is causing tension, pressure, or anxiety, this is the time to take a step back and put quality over quantity.
Your erectile function should not suffer with regular sexual activity, but it’s always good to observe your body. If you start to notice symptoms of erectile dysfunction, talk to your healthcare provider about prescription medication like Viagra, Cialis, vardenafil (formerly Levitra), and Stendra to help address the problem.
Your Sex Life in Balance With eDrugstore
Whatever your sexual style, eDrustore.com is here to help you make the most of intimacy. Our erectile dysfunction section has all you need to resolve your sexual concerns fast. And when you shop with eDrugstore, virtual health visits and shipping are always free.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about health and related topics but is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Anka Grzywacz is a sexologist, reproductive health expert and Certified Sex Coach™. In her online practice she helps busy women and couples solve their intimate problems.