Sleep expert explains benefits of intimacy before bed

Dr Kristen Holmes says sexual activity releases hormones linked to relaxation, and recent sleep-tracker research reported shorter wake times and slightly higher sleep efficiency on nights with partnered or solo sexual activity.

Dr Kristen Holmes, a psycho-physiologist, explained why intimacy and sleep are connected. She told The Telegraph that sexual activity prompts a coordinated release of neurochemicals associated with pleasure, bonding and relaxation. The chemicals discussed include oxytocin, serotonin and prolactin, which the article links to reduced stress and a sense of well-being. Recent studies and reviews have explored links between sexual activity and sleep quality. Reported findings: - Dr Holmes described sex as triggering oxytocin, serotonin and prolactin, and said these chemicals can promote relaxation and lower stress hormones. - A 2023 review of 43 studies in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found a significant association between sexual frequency and sleep quality and duration. - A recent home-based experiment using sleep trackers reported that nights with sexual activity (partnered or solo) were associated with an average of 16 minutes awake during the night, versus about 23 minutes on nights without sexual activity. - The sleep tracker study also reported that sleep efficiency improved by about two percentage points to 93.4% on nights with sexual activity. - The authors of the study noted that the apparent benefits for sleep were particularly strong for women. Summary: Reported research and expert comment link sexual activity before bed with measures of improved sleep, including shorter wake times and modest gains in sleep efficiency. The extent and causes of these associations remain under study. Undetermined at this time.