Sex Trends & the Case for Staying Intimate

Today, on International Female Orgasm Day, we want to explore why staying intimate still matters - especially in a world where sexual activity is quietly, but steadily, decreasing. 

Over the past two decades, sexual activity has steadily declined across nearly all age groups, a shift shaped by cultural, psychological, and biological factors. Among young adults aged 18–24, the number of men reporting no sex in the past year rose significantly between 2000 and 2018. Married couples are also affected, with weekly sex rates falling by more than 10%. Teenagers, too, are engaging in less sexual activity than a decade ago. This decline reflects evolving social norms and lifestyles, rising stress and mental health concerns, and biological changes such as aging and health issues. These factors combine to reduce both the desire for and opportunities to engage in sex, while increased screen time and digital distractions also play a growing role.

This isn’t just about frequency. Across age groups, fewer people are having sex regularly, and many report lower interest or satisfaction. While sexual exploration still happens, it’s becoming more concentrated and infrequent. These trends raise an important question: what do we lose when we disconnect from sex, not just as a physical act, but as a vital part of overall well-being?

Research shows that regular sexual activity delivers benefits across physical and mental domains. It boosts cardiovascular health, strengthens the immune system, improves sleep, and may reduce prostate cancer risk. Orgasms can relieve pain, including headaches and menstrual cramps, while pelvic muscle engagement supports bladder control and vaginal health, especially after menopause.

Mentally, sex helps regulate stress by lowering cortisol and increasing mood-boosting hormones like oxytocin and endorphins. It’s linked to better self-esteem, stronger relationship bonds, and even improved cognitive function in older adults.

Far from being a recreational luxury, sex is an underused pillar of holistic health. It supports hormone balance, fertility, and longevity. In an age of rising stress, screen time, and disconnection, focusing on sexual wellness could help people restore meaningful connection between body, mind, and relationships.

At Kadence Bio, we believe sexual wellness isn’t just about treating dysfunction, it’s about empowering individuals and couples to reclaim the physical, emotional, and relational benefits of intimacy. As cultural behaviors shift, our mission becomes even more urgent: to develop science-backed solutions that make sex more satisfying, accessible, and stigma-free. Because when people can enjoy regular, fulfilling sex, we’re not just improving quality of life, we’re advancing a more complete vision of health.

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