Tis’ the season to spice things up in the bedroom

Almost seven in 10 adults plan to have sex in their childhood home or parents’ house this holiday season, according to new research.

In a poll of 2,000 sexually active adults, two-thirds agree that because holiday travel makes it difficult to find time to be intimate, they are willing to take more sexual risks.

Although most respondents plan to get it on in their parents’ home, 67% admit they feel uncomfortable doing so, even as an adult.

More than two-thirds (67%) said they are also more likely to spice things up in the bedroom during the holiday season compared to other times during the year.

The poll, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Pure Romance, sought to unveil how the holiday magic follows couples into the bedroom.

Seventy-seven percent of people surveyed agree that festive, holiday sex is more magical than non-holiday sex. Even so, 52% of respondents say they have less sex with their partner during the holidays.

But that’s not to say people aren’t making an effort to be intimate. Compared to other times during the year, 69% of respondents are more likely to sneak in a quickie during the holiday season.

When asked what factors decrease their sex life during the holidays, the top deterrents were being too busy spending time with family and friends (67%), stress (60%) and not getting enough sleep (57%).

In order to reignite the spark, more than six in 10 (63%) of respondents are likely to give their partner a sex-themed gift this holiday season. 

Seventy-two percent even went so far as to say that being given a sex-themed present from their significant other would increase their libido and make them excited to use the gift.

“The holiday season is known to be one of the most stressful times of the year. In fact, 88% of Americans feel they’re most anxious during the holidays. The change in weather, decrease in sunlight, and additional time around family are just a few factors that can lead to anxiety and depression. Sex is a tried and true stress reliever. It raises endorphins and even offers a form of exercise to burn extra holiday calories, plus it encourages a stronger relationship between you and your significant other,” stated Patty Brisben, Pure Romance founder.

On top of holiday-specific obstacles, people shied away from sex for other reasons throughout the year.

A low sex drive (42%), feeling bloated (37%) and negative body image (37%) also contributed to why couples had less sex in the past year. 

When asked what advice respondents have for someone looking to maintain their normal sex life during the busy holiday season, one person said, “do it whenever and wherever possible.”

One respondent made it clear that sex should be a priority, saying, “lie and say you are tired from traveling or cooking and that you both need some rest, but go and have sex instead of sleeping”.

“Our biggest takeaway on getting intimate this holiday season? Regardless of how busy your schedule is, schedule some time to get busy! We know the holidays are a stressful time of year, but you might be surprised to find that making romance a priority will turn your season from stressful to magical. And there’s always a way to add a little holiday spice by mixing it up a bit!” added Patty Brisben, Pure Romance founder.

HOW COUPLES COMBINE HOLIDAY SEASON AND BEDROOM MAGIC

• Playing a holiday movie in the background - 45%
• Holiday-themed lingerie - 41%
• Holiday sex traditions - 39%
• Holiday music in the background - 39%
• Mistletoe - 32%