Sexual health and education have always been shrouded in mystery this side of the subcontinent. The main reasons are lack of sex specialists and cultural setbacks. The times are changing though. The recent surge in news coverage related to marital abuse and sexual assault is slowly bringing sexual awareness to the forefront.
In light of this social change, let us take a look at some of the most prevalent sex myths, and the real facts behind them:
Table of Contents
1- A Woman’s Virginity Depends on Her Hymen:
The hymen has existed as a false standard for determining a woman’s virginity for centuries, irrespective of culture. However, the common perception of this membrane ‘covering’ the vaginal opening like cellophane are false. If this were true, vaginal discharge and menstrual blood would not be able to leave the body.
On the contrary, hymen that covers the entire vaginal opening is actually a congenital condition known as ‘imperforate hymen’ that requires surgery to allow normal menstrual and vaginal discharge. Also, while some bleeding is normal, most women never bleed after sex, as the hymen is highly elastic and flexible.
2- Sex and Sports Don’t Mix:
A 2016 study published in the Frontiers in Physiology journal has laid this myth to rest. Having sex a few days, or even one night, before a competition has no physical effect on energy and stamina.
However, some men may be psychologically inclined to think of sex as draining their energy levels, which then of course impacts their field performance.
3- Men Peak Sexually at 18, Women at 28:
While testosterone and estrogen production are highest at these ages in men and women, respectively, this may not necessarily translate into peak sexual performance.
Although low hormone levels have been associated with a reduced sex drive/libido keep in mind that sex drive continues to fluctuate multiple times over a lifetime irrespective of gender. Hormone levels are only one facet; stress and personal preference all play an important role in determining sex drive.
4- Oysters and Chocolates are Sex Essentials:
The tryptophan in chocolate increases mood-boosting serotonin levels, while zinc from oysters is essential for healthy sperm growth. However, their sexual effects are only psychological.
For most people, it is the continued association of these foods with sex that promotes sexual desire. In this context, any food can serve as an aphrodisiac depending upon personal perception and preference.
5- The Best Sex is Spontaneous, Planned Sex is Bad:
Magnetic feelings of attraction do not always guarantee an excellent sexual experience. Good sex requires time, practice, and understanding of a partner’s preferences.
Also, for those who relate scheduling sexual activity to a desire-killing chore, note that planning it in advance can actually amplify the anticipation, and hence the experience. Waiting for the right moment only snuffs out the desire, and can impact the emotional health of the relationship.
6- Sex Is Good for Weight Loss:
30 minutes of continued sexual activity burns 85-150 calories. However, losing even one pound of body weight requires burning roughly 3500 calories, which means having sex 35 times a week for 30 minutes each.
But for most, a single session rarely ever lasts 30 minutes. The average duration is usually 5-10 minutes, and even then, the body reaches maximum heart rate and blood pressure within 15 seconds during orgasm.
Appropriate sex education is increasingly necessary to ensure a healthy relationship and avoid any accidental mishaps.
Do not hesitate to consult with a certified Sexologist in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your sexual health concerns.
