Science Says Cuddling After Sex Could Be Good for Your Relationship

Sex may end with an orgasm, but research suggests that it offers more. There is evidence that shows that cuddling helps your relationship. Talking, holding hands or kissing can help tighten the bond. Here are some findings that show the benefits from staying close to your partner after sex. 

Sexual Satisfaction

A 2014 study published in Archives of Sexual Behavior examined 335 people in romantic relationships. It found that spending time showing affection after sex was associated with greater sexual satisfaction. That higher sexual satisfaction was, the greater relationship satisfaction.

The researchers then followed 101 established couples through daily reports and a three-month follow-up. They found that couples who experienced longer and more satisfying periods of affection after sex also reported higher sexual and relationship satisfaction later.

Emotional Intimacy

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Cuddling after intercourse allows time for lovers to remain close. That closeness creates a sense of emotional connection when couples hold each other. 

Research involving 1,493 Americans found a connection between cuddling and emotional intimacy. 70% of respondents reported cuddling during their most recent sexual event, and cuddling was the only one of the behaviours studied that was associated with emotional intimacy. 

Read Also: 6 Ways to Improve Your Sex Life

Affection May Help Couples Feel Better After Sex

Cuddling is an affectionate behaviour that researchers have linked to positive emotions. A 2017 study examined how affection benefits people from sexual activity.

The researchers found that affection helped explain the relationship between sex and positive emotions. In a study involving 106 couples with children, affection explains the link between sexual activity and increased positive feelings. They also found that the strength of this daily connection allows both partners’ enjoy their relationship. 

It Shows That Sex is Above the Physical Act

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Couples can benefit from the affectionate moments surrounding sex. Kissing and caressing can give partners another opportunity to bond together.

A separate study of midlife couples found that frequent kissing and caressing were associated with sexual satisfaction and relationship happiness. The study also found that a partner’s behaviour mattered when predicting an individual’s satisfaction. 

Gives Couples Time to Connect

The minutes immediately after sex can be useful for simple forms of connection. A couple may talk about their day, laugh together and lie quietly in each other’s arms.

That does not mean every couple should follow the same routine. The research shows a relationship between post-sex affection and relationship. Although it does not state that only cuddling promotes a better relationship. 

Overall, science suggests that what couples do after sex can matter. Cuddling may help extend feelings of closeness, support sexual satisfaction and keep a relationship strong.