Infidelity is Beneficial, and 8 More Intriguing Facts About Sex and Hormones

Did you know that the sayings "Gray hair, devil in the side" and "Women are like fine wine" have scientific basis? SEDUCE explains their origins.

Hormones significantly impact women. This is why the book "The Whole Truth About Hormones: Sex, Beauty, Health, Career" caught our attention. We found it filled with interesting, controversial, and even provocative information. Here’s a small portion related to sexual life that we're sharing with you.

1. Affairs Can Be Beneficial

Since the 1980s, US psychotherapists see nothing wrong with infidelity. In fact, they even recommend it: if you want to rekindle the passion in your bed that has cooled over 10-15 years of marriage, consider having an affair.

This truth is scientifically proven. In 1956, researchers Beach and Jordan conducted an experiment. A young and vigorous male rat was placed in a cage with five females and had numerous sexual encounters. When he no longer wanted or could engage, they introduced a new female. Despite his fatigue, he showed intense interest and desire for sex with the newcomer.

In 1990, scientists discovered that when a new female is introduced, the male rat's brain sees a spike in dopamine levels. He hasn't met her yet, but he already anticipates pleasure! Hence, many sexologists believe affairs can be beneficial. It's better to live with someone who doesn't suffer from inferiority complexes. Each new sexual relationship is an excellent therapeutic method for combating neuroses. This supports open relationships.

2. Sexual Activity Varies by Season

Women are most sexually active in the summer. This is due to increased synthesis of hormones like testosterone (which drives libido) and estradiol.

In contrast, autumn and winter see a drop in sexual drive, linked to higher progesterone levels, which suppress libido, and increased cortisol, the stress hormone. This often leads to apathy rather than sexual desire. The good news: seasonal sexual activity aligns for men and women, with both being most passionate in the summer.

3. "Gray Hair, Devil in the Side" and "Women are like Fine Wine" Have Scientific Basis

The peak of sexual activity doesn't align for men and women. Men reach their peak at 18-20 years old and maintain high levels until 40-45, after which it gradually declines.

Women's sexuality awakens later. Before 30, 17% experience it, another 40% after 30, and it peaks at 45-50 years old ("Women are like fine wine"), then may decline due to menopause. Middle-aged men seek younger women whose awakening libido matches their declining desire, feeling comfortable with younger partners.

4. Ideal Time for Sex is 4 PM

Daily sexual activity rhythms differ for men and women. Men have peak luteinizing hormone levels at night and testosterone in the early morning, explaining their preference for morning sex. Testosterone is lowest in the evening.

For women, prolactin levels rise during sleep, damping passion. Their sexual drive awakens later, peaking at 10 PM. The best time for a top-notch encounter is around 4 PM, when female arousal rises, and male desire hasn't cooled from the morning peak.

5. Sexual Abstinence is Harmful

While individual, gynecologists agree it's crucial for middle-aged and menopausal women to maintain sexual activity to avoid depression and neuroses.

Long breaks can lead to pelvic congestion, resulting in reproductive system issues like uterine fibroids, once called "nun's disease" due to the link between irregular sex, no childbirth, and fibroid risk. If you lack a sexual partner, prevent congestion with physical activities like walking, dancing, yoga, and Pilates.

6. Abstaining from Sex Increases Productivity

Many psychotherapists believe that avoiding active sexual life frees energy for creativity or scientific pursuits. Freud first discussed this, introducing sublimation - the transformation of sexual energy into creative or everyday tasks.

7. Hormonal Contraceptives Don't Necessarily Lower Libido

Doctors and scientists still debate the impact of contraceptive hormones on female sexual desire despite numerous studies. While libido reduction is a side effect listed for some contraceptives, not everyone experiences it. Other factors (negative emotions, stress, etc.) can also reduce sexual desire.

8. Aphrodisiacs Enhance Sex

Since the 16th century, the best aphrodisiac for women was thought to be ointments from Spanish fly (a small green beetle), though this method was abandoned for being barbaric. Today, top aphrodisiacs include strawberries, dark chocolate, celery, and oysters.