The INSIDER Summary:
- A study found that the most common sex acts people enjoy are pretty romantic.
- People said they enjoyed kissing, cuddling, and making the room more romantic the most in the bedroom.
- But researchers also said that many people don't do these things as often as other sexual activities and incorporating them more can lead to more romance.
When you discuss your sex life with your friends, you might get the impression that most people are into some pretty salacious things in the bedroom. But according to a new study, the things that most people like to get up to are more PG than X-rated.
The study, conducted by the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington and the Center for Sexual Health Promotion, surveyed more than 2,000 people about what "sex acts" they're performing with their partner. Of the 50 acts they listed, people's highest rated picks were pretty tame.
They included kissing during sex, cuddling, making the room feel more romantic before having sex, and whispering sweet nothings.
"Contrary to some stereotypes, the most appealing behaviors, even for men, are romantic and affectionate behaviors," Debby Herbenick, professor and the lead author on the study, said in the release.
The study also noted that while these were among peoples' favorite things to do, that many had not engaged in them in the last year, and they were habits they had done in the past. Researchers encouraged more couples to put some romance and care back in their sex lives more frequently.
"These data highlight opportunities for couples to talk more openly with one another about their sexual desires and interests," said Herbenick. "Together they may find new ways of being romantic or sexual with one another, enhancing both their sexual satisfaction and relationship happiness."
So while you find yourself wanting a deeper connection, have a talk with your partner about ways you can make your sex more emotional and have a deeper connection.
Join the conversation about this story »
NOW WATCH: Scientific studies show that people who are altruistic have more sex