The Top 10 Most Searched for Sex Questions Answered

If you are newly single or are in the throes of a new relationship, there are important questions to ask your partner. But, how comfortable are you talking about your sex life?

If it’s anything like this recent survey, not very. A study of 24,000 found that Brits are among the least likely in Europe to discuss what goes on in the bedroom. Furthermore, 52% of Brits avoid discussing their sex life completely.

With that in mind, MattressNextDay has uncovered the UK’s top 10 most Googled sex-related questions before enlisting the expertise of Psychological Therapist, Kate Chartres, to encourage Brits to make a point of asking the right questions with their sexual partners.

1. What are the symptoms of an STI?

264,000 Brits Google per year

In 2020, it was revealed that there was a new sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosis in England every 70 seconds. So, it’s little wonder that this is the most commonly asked question.

Unfortunately, in many cases, there aren’t symptoms, so it’s important to ensure you practice safe sex with new partners. However, the usual symptoms include an unusual discharge, pain when peeing, a rash or itchy genitals. These symptoms can develop in a matter of days to weeks, with some taking years to appear. This is why it is important to receive regular tests from your local clinic, and contact your GP should you have any concerns.

Kate confirms this, “If you have had an STI in the past, you must be honest about it. These things can lie dormant and be passed on. People have a right to know, so try to give the full facts, so they can make an informed decision.”

She then goes on to say, “If you are busy enjoying dating apps and meeting people for sex 0 protect yourself. If the person you are with isn’t keen to wear protection, then it probably isn’t very safe. Walk away as there will always be others who want to have fun, at the same time as being safe.”

2. How long should sex last?

43,200 Brits Google per year

With 43,200 searches per year, this common concern for Brits came in second place.

A study reported that Brits last around 19 minutes. However, if it’s sparked some concern, don’t worry as the experts at Durex have said that up to 10 minutes is fairly typical.

As one report is almost double the length of time as the other - this just shows that it differs from partner to partner, and should last as long as you fancy.

3. How to increase your sex drive?

42,000 Brits Google per year

Not having regular sex is more common than you might think. A YouGov study found that 59% of Brits are having sex less than once a week or not at all. This will explain why ‘how to increase sex drive’ from being the third most asked question, generating 42,000 Google searches every year.

A huge amount of both internal and external factors can affect your sex drive, or libido, such as sleep habits and the food you eat.

There are plenty of natural ways to increase your libido, including:

• Attempting to get more sleep, taking naps where you can
• Reducing alcohol intake
• Eating certain fruits. The likes of avocados and bananas are considered aphrodisiacs
• Include chocolate in your diet, which helps promote the research of hormones that have mood-lifting effects

If you are concerned, it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor who can help identify any underlying problems.

4. Are cold sores herpes?

34,800 Brits Google per year

‘Herpes Simplex’ is a virus that causes cold sores, which will stay in the skin for the rest of your life once you have contracted the virus. They are very common and typically clear up within 10 days.

In serious cases, your GP can provide you with antiviral tablets if they are sore and regularly appear. Try not to touch your cold sore, kiss your partner or share anything that might come into contact with your cold sore.

5. Should you have sex on a first date?

15,600 Brits Google per year

39% of Brits have had sex on a first date, according to this report, and there’s around 15,600 searches for ‘sex on a first date’ each year to see if that’s the right thing to do.

Although the same report states that Britons wait an average of 3.6 dates before sleeping with someone new - which just shows that it’s up to you. What you feel is safe and right for yourself. If you want to sleep with someone new, always make sure that you and your partner are comfortable with doing so.

Kate also said, “if someone is intoxicated with any substance, it’s probably not the right time to have the discussion, and definitely not the right time to have sex/perform a sexual act.”

She then goes on to say, “if your partner isn’t being particularly enthusiastic, they may no longer be into it. People can freeze when they feel uncomfortable, so if what you’re doing isn’t getting a joyous response - please double check.”

6. What is the average number of sexual partners?

12,000 Brits Google per year

According to a report by Superdrug, the average Brit has seven sexual partners. It’s important that you are open with new partners about your sexual history, particularly if you want to develop it into a relationship.

One of the top tips is for you to start the conversation, as they likely won’t. Plus, numbers, whether high or low, vary with everyone. If we were all honest, we’d see that there’s a huge range and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about.

7. How to make your vagina smell nice?

8,640 Brits Google per year

With over 8,000 searches for this each year, it’s clear that many people are unsure of what makes a vagina ‘healthy’ or ‘unhealthy’. One of the top tips to keep yours healthy is to practice good hygiene. Avoid soap and use water to clean. Additionally, avoid the lies of loofahs which could cause small scratches that could give way to infections.

8. How often should you have sex?

7,080 Brits Google per year

As mentioned above, most than half of UK couples (59%) are having sex less than once a week. While that may be average, that’s not to say it’s right for you. Every couple is unique and what’s right for someone else, might not be right for you. If you are unhappy with your sex life, however, communicate with your partner. This should always be the first step.

9. How to have better sex?

7,080 Brits Google per year

Psychological Therapist, Kate Chartres, has shared her tips for discussing your sex life with your new partner, and getting the most out of it.

Kates says, “What we want to do in bed is important. if it makes you feel uncomfortable say so, say no. Feel confident in sharing your preferences, even if they are weird and wonderful. You might be pleasantly surprised by the response.

“Having great sex is so important in relationships. If you don’t share what you want and more importantly, what you don’t want, the relationship might fail to reach its full potential.”

10. How to put on a condom without being awkward?

4,320 Brits Google per year

Using a condom is not awkward or embarrassing. In fact, it’s extremely responsible. To put it on correctly, hold the tip of the condom between your thumb and forefinger. Then, place the condom over the tip of your penis and roll it down over the length of your penis. If this is your method of contraception, use a condom every time you have sex.

Kate says that “a person’s chosen method of contraception is their entitled preference. Discuss it in advance so you are both clear.”

If you are looking for even more tips in the bedroom, we’ve rounded up the ultimate, best mattresses for sex and even the sexiest films ever released. For an even comfier, better bedroom for you and your partner, you can shop our selection of mattresses today.