How Much Sex Is Too Much?

If you're frequently sexually active, you might wonder, how much sex is too much? And are there repercussions of having too much sex, anyway?

Here's what you should know about when, how, and why your body can warn you that you need some respite from sex.

How Much Sex Does the Average Person Have?

While sex frequency varies from person to person, research has estimated the number of times an average adult engages in sex. For example, the average adult has sex 54 times a year, according to a study published in 2017 in the Archives of Sexual Behavior. 

That frequency can change depending on a few different factors. For example, according to the researchers, sex frequency varies by age in the following way:

• People in their 20s have sex about 80 times a year.
• Around age 50, it's common for sexual frequency to decline.
• People in their 60s have sex about 20 times a year.

Also, the researchers found that sex frequency declined among people who were married or living together. However, that sex frequency stayed relatively steady among unpartnered people.

Can You Have Too Much Sex?

Here's something to put your mind at ease. 

"The definition of frequent sex is variable. And if it feels good and doesn't hurt, then sex at any frequency is okay," Rebecca C. Brightman, MD, an assistant clinical professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, told Health.

In other words, the number of times a person has sex a year is different for everyone. You can have as much sex as possible without experiencing negative side effects. 

So, listen to your body if you're experiencing discomfort, swelling, irritation, or otherwise. Taking a break from sex may help ease those symptoms. If the side effect is severe or lasts long, you'll likely want to talk to a healthcare professional.

Vaginal Risks of Having Too Much Sex

The main physical hazard of having a lot of sex is excessive swelling of the vagina and labia, Sherry A. Ross, MD, an OB-GYN based in Santa Monica, Calif., and author of She-ology: The Definitive Guide to Women's Intimate Health, told Health. 

"With a lot of sexual stimulation, the vagina and labia become engorged with blood," explained Dr. Ross. "And this can lead to excessive swelling and pain with sexual contact."

The vulva, which describes all of the external female genitalia, includes:

• The labia, which are the folds of skin around the vaginal opening
• The opening to the vagina
• The clitoris

In contrast, the internal vagina is the muscular tube that leads from the vaginal opening to the cervix. A long sex session can cause swelling and pain in the vagina and labia. Also, you may notice that the natural lubrication of your vagina dries up. And if the vagina is too dry, friction and pain can occur.

"If you haven't had the right amount of foreplay to become sexually aroused and get wet, the vagina will be dry, making sex painful when the penis or fingers enter the vagina," said Dr. Ross. Also, vaginal dryness can occur in menopausal people, pointed out Dr. Ross. 

Vaginal dryness results in a burning sensation inside the vagina during sexual contact and penetration. If you end up with a swollen or sore vagina after sexual contact, back off until you feel okay, noted Dr. Brightman. 

If the swelling seems excessive, try an ice pack for some relief. Next time you have sex, consider using a vaginal lubricant or extra virgin coconut oil to create extra wetness in the vagina. For chafing, Aquaphor or a similar product can help to soothe affected areas, said Dr. Ross.

Penile Risks of Having Too Much Sex

There may also be penile risks of having too much sex.

For example, "the penis can experience soreness, swelling, and chafing, and [a man may have] difficulty urinating," explained Dr. Ross.

And remember that a big penis isn't always better, especially if you're having a lot of sex. While a thick penis can make your partner feel full, being overly stretched can be painful and uncomfortable and cause vaginal or anal tears.

Other Side Effects of Having Too Much Sex

Higher sex frequency may increase your risk of bladder and vaginal infections due to a disrupted vaginal pH balance, explained Dr. Ross. Vaginal pH becomes imbalanced when bacteria from the vagina and anus find their way into the bladder.

To help prevent bladder and vaginal infections, empty your bladder after having vaginal sex with your partner.

In some cases, the side effect of having a lot of sex might call for medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if you have any symptoms of vaginal infection or inflammation, like:

• Abnormal discharge
• Itching
• Pain
• Odor

According to a study published in 2020 in BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health, men who reported 10 or more sexual partners were nearly 70% more likely to develop cancer than those who reported zero or one sexual partner.

Also, women who reported 10 or more sexual partners were nearly 91% more likely to develop cancer when compared with those who reported zero or one sexual partner.

According to the researchers, those increased risks of cancer probably links to cancers associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like human papillomavirus (HPV).

Ensuring a Satisfying Sexual Relationship

"As long as there is proper lubrication and consensual breaks in between going under the sheets, you're not in any danger," said Dr. Ross. "Communication is vital in a relationship, especially during intimacy. Being honest and comfortable with your partner ensures a healthy and satisfying sexual relationship."

Listen to your body at all times, added Dr. Brightman. If something doesn't feel good—whether it's the first time you've had sex for a week or your third round in 24 hours—stop. Discuss any discomfort with your partner. In fact, having an open discussion with your partner about sex has health benefits.

And if you feel like you're overdoing it, give your genitals a rest by taking a break for a day or two. There's no shame in taking as long as you need until you feel ready to give sex another go.

A Quick Review

You can have as much sex as you'd like if you're not experiencing any adverse effects like pain, discomfort, swelling, or irritation. 

If you're experiencing any pain or other physical symptoms from sex, listen to your body and take a break from sex. And if the side effect is severe or lasts long, consult a healthcare provider.