It’s Not You. Everyone Still Believes These Sex Myths

Many widely believed notions about sex, ranging from calorie burning during intercourse to historical sexual practices, are actually persistent myths debunked by scientific research and historical evidence.

• Many widely accepted sex-related beliefs are persistent myths, debunked by scientific studies.

• Stereotypes about gender and sex drives often stem from cultural pressures rather than biological differences.

• Historical perceptions of sexual practices, virginity, and contraception are frequently inaccurate and oversimplified.

Common beliefs about sex, such as its calorie-burning potential or impact on athletic performance, are often based on misconceptions or outdated information rather than scientific fact. Persistent stereotypes about men's constant sexual readiness and women's virginity prior to marriage are also disproven by studies and historical records, revealing complex individual differences and societal influences. Understanding these debunked myths clarifies various aspects of sexual health, relationships, and historical perceptions.

Sex and Physical Activity

• 00:00:34 Sex does not burn many calories; 30 minutes of sex burns 90 to 120 calories, while average intercourse duration is 3 to 7 minutes, burning only 14 to 25 calories. Furthermore, the myth that sex impairs athletic performance, a belief stemming from ancient Greece, has been disproven by a 2022 meta-analysis which found no impact of sexual activity on young men’s physical performance 30 minutes or 24 hours before an event.

Pregnancy and Reproduction

• 00:02:03 It is a myth that pregnancy cannot occur during a woman's period; while unlikely, women with shorter cycles can ovulate earlier, and sperm can survive for up to five days, allowing for fertilization. Additionally, sex does not induce labor, despite common recommendations and the release of oxytocin during orgasm and prostaglandins in semen, as science does not support this hypothesis. The belief that one cannot get pregnant the first time having sex is also a dangerous myth, often leading to unplanned pregnancies among inexperienced teens.

Sexual Desire and Aphrodisiacs

• 00:03:57 The idea of a sexual 'peak' at 18 for men and 35 for women, derived from Alfred Kinsey’s work, is a misconception; 18-year-old men had frequent orgasms due to peaking testosterone and solo activity, while 30-something women often experienced better sex in stable relationships. Sex drives are fluid, with libido generally highest in late teens and 20s. Furthermore, common aphrodisiacs like oysters and dark chocolate lack scientific backing for boosting libido, though preliminary studies on gingko, ginseng, maca, and tribulus show some conflicting promise.

Gender Stereotypes in Sex

• 00:05:51 The misconception that men are always ready for sex damages both genders, leading to guilt for men and feelings of rejection for women. Studies show 14% to 19% of men report problematic low sexual desire, and men's desire is also influenced by emotional connection. The idea that men always want sex more than women ignores individual differences; studies on sex drive vary, but when social stigma is removed, men and women show similar likelihood to agree to sex, and reporting gaps, rather than biological differences, often skew data on sexual behaviors like masturbation and number of partners.

Myths About Virginity and History

• 00:12:23 An intact hymen is not an indicator of virginity, as it can tear from non-sexual activities or remain intact after sexual intercourse. The claim that women become 'loose' from many partners is also false, as vaginal structure changes primarily due to childbirth, not sexual activity. Historically, the belief that medieval men used chastity belts is a myth, as evidence points to satire; real chastity belts emerged in the Victorian era but were not widely used. Puritanical views on sex are also misunderstood; Puritans actually encouraged sex within marriage for pleasure, and historical data show many women in Western Europe, including Puritans, were pregnant on their wedding day, challenging the myth of universal premarital virginity.