Whether you’re an early bird or night owl, everyone has their own optimal time for sex. But there are some factors to consider when picking the right moment.
For example, the best time for sex may depend on your biological rhythms, roommates, work schedule, and health conditions. So we turned to sex experts for their opinions on morning, afternoon and night sex.
Morning
Morning sex is the most common choice because it can help you ease into your day, boost your mood and relieve stress. It can also lead to orgasms and help you bond with your partner. However, it’s not a good option for every couple. For example, some couples work different shifts or have kids to get ready for school. Plus, men who suffer from erectile dysfunction may struggle with morning sex if they’re not on an ED drug.
Another reason why morning sex is popular is because it’s the most natural time of the day for both men and women. For example, men tend to have their highest levels of testosterone in the morning, so they’re naturally more aroused.
On the other hand, women usually feel more relaxed in the evening when they’re done with their chores, have eaten and put their kids to bed. Moreover, night sex can be more difficult to achieve because it requires that both partners are in the right mood. In fact, a study found that 37 per cent of couples having difficulty getting pregnant were made up of a night owl and a morning person. Hence, it’s important to talk with your partner about your individual preferences and find a time that works best for both of you. And remember, sex doesn’t just mean penetration; oral sex and sensual massages can be just as satisfying.
Afternoon
It’s no secret that sex can help fight fatigue and boost energy levels, but the time of day you choose to engage in that sexual activity may be more important than you think. According to hormone expert Alisa Vitti, the best time of day for a heterosexual couple to have sex is around 3pm. She tells MailOnline that men’s libidos reach their peak in the afternoon, when they have elevated levels of testosterone and oestrogen. Combined with the fact that women are at their most alert at this time (thanks to cortisol), and they’re likely already on a high from their morning coffee, Vitti says the time of day is perfect for a satisfying experience.
For some, the idea of sex in the morning is more than a little bit gross. However, sex in the AM has its benefits, like boosting the immune system and helping you burn five calories a minute. Plus, it’s the best way to start your day with a flood of feel-good neurotransmitters that can relieve stress and make you happy.
Of course, the best time of day to have sex for any particular couple will depend on their individual schedule and preferences. But, as sex and relationship therapist Tammy Nelson, Ph.D., tells mbg, “The more you learn about your own biorhythms, the easier it is to get what you need from each other.” So if you’re a morning or evening person, keep in mind that getting it on at different times of the day can actually have some pretty cool effects.
Night
The night is a time for romance, bonding and intimacy. It’s also when women and men’s sexual arousal is typically at its highest. “Sex at night can be deeply sexy, sensual and nourishing,” Gigi Engle, CSE, author, certified sex educator and psychotherapist in training tells mbg.
The reasons for this are numerous: It’s a low-pressure time, which allows couples to really connect. “It’s a great way to unwind after a stressful day and feel good about yourself,” she says. It’s also when cervical mucus peaks (a healthy, odorless discharge that resembles raw egg whites). This improves the motility of sperm and the ability of eggs to survive. It’s the best chance you have of getting pregnant.
But it’s not just about that: “There are other things that happen when you sleep at night, like the release of oxytocin,” says sex educator and therapist Searah Deysach. Oxytocin is a sex hormone that promotes feelings of calm and happiness.
However, there are a few drawbacks to romping at night. One is that people tend to get exhausted from their daily activities, making it difficult to engage in mind-blowing orgasms. Another is that it can be harder to ejaculate at night because the vaginal walls are thinner. This can lead to discomfort and pain for some. “The trick is to have an open conversation with your partner about their needs and preferences,” says Deysach.
Thursday
The best day of the week to have sex is Thursday, according to a London School of Economics report. That’s when hormone levels for men and women are the most firework-inducing. How the body knows what day it is on a cellular level is beyond us, but we’re sure it has something to do with natural cortisol levels, which are known to stimulate sex hormones, reports the Sun.
Whether morning, afternoon or night, experts agree that having sex on a regular basis can strengthen your relationship with your partner. But it’s important to find a time when you and your partner can make it happen without feeling exhausted or busy, says Tammy Nelson, Ph.D, a sex and relationship expert, international speaker and author.
That may be easier said than done, depending on your schedule and sex preferences. If you’re an early bird, morning sex may be the best option as your libido is at its highest then. Similarly, if you’re an evening person, having sex after dinner can help you fall asleep faster as your brain releases the oxytocin that promotes sleepiness. But it’s not all about the timing; it’s also about making sex a regular activity that’s on your calendar. The more you look forward to it, the more intimate your bond will be. Gigi Engle, a certified sex educator and psychotherapist in training, says that figuring out the best times for you and your partner can help you feel more connected to each other.
