Study #1: Polyester Pants May Lower Men’s Libido

If you've ever brought a "foxy mama" home for some fun, I hate to break it to you—those polyester pants from the 70s might have harmed your sperm count. This research highlighted the negative effects of polyester on sexual desire, starting with a rather adorable experiment involving rats dressed in polyester.

The results showed that the rats in polyester had significantly less interest in mating compared to those in breathable cotton. (The researchers didn't explore whether the rats’ confidence was affected.)

Curiously, the study then extended to men, who wore polyester slings on their scrotums for a year. Alarmingly, none were able to conceive during this time, and they even became azoospermic—meaning they stopped producing sperm. Thankfully, this condition reversed once they ditched the polyester.

So, while women have faced numerous adverse effects from birth control for years, men only had to endure polyester. How unfair!

Study #2: Sexually Active Women May Have Enhanced Brain Function

Women with a healthy sex life may have a cognitive advantage. A small study revealed that when a group of women was stimulated using a vibrating device, brain scans showed that the somatosensory cortex, responsible for processing sensory data, became more active during arousal.

Participants were also asked about their sexual activity, revealing that those with frequent sexual experiences had a thicker somatosensory cortex. Researchers pondered whether a more developed cortex led to increased sexual desire or if a more active sex life strengthened this brain region.

Most believe the latter is true, much like how cab drivers develop larger hippocampi from navigating city streets.

Interestingly, the same study found that women who had experienced sexual trauma had a thinner somatosensory cortex, hinting at potential future applications for therapy.

Study #3: Swallowing Semen Might Ease Morning Sickness

Men often tout the health perks of swallowing, citing the protein content in semen—5000 milligrams per 100 milliliters. While that sounds impressive, it’s worth noting that a typical ejaculate amounts to about 5 milliliters, meaning a substantial volume is required for any nutritional benefit.

Semen also boasts vitamin C, B12, zinc, and magnesium, but if you're skeptical, research suggests that pregnant women who received higher amounts of their partner's semen reported less morning sickness.

Though the precise reason remains unclear, one theory posits that exposure to the father's DNA through his semen before conception may reduce the immune response to it during pregnancy.

Study #4: Semen Could Have Anti-Aging Properties

You might be thinking I've gone down a rabbit hole with this topic, but here’s another intriguing angle—semen contains spermidine, a natural compound that could slow aging. Research showed that mice consuming spermidine experienced less cardiovascular and neurodegenerative decline.

While spermidine was introduced via drinking water in studies, recent findings suggest similar effects in humans. However, spermidine can also be found in various foods, giving you plenty of options.

Study #5: The Mystery Behind Dick Pics Unraveled

The reasons behind men sending unsolicited explicit images have long puzzled many. A study that surveyed over a thousand men found that the primary motivation for sending such pictures was to elicit a similar response—a rather lazy form of flirting.

Unfortunately, the study didn’t explore whether these images led to reciprocation, which would provide valuable insights into this ongoing conundrum.

Study #6: Engaging in Sex May Improve Breathing

Sigmund Freud had some unconventional theories linking sex and nasal function. A century later, researchers found a connection between chronic sinus issues and erectile dysfunction, prompting a modern examination of Freud's ideas.

In a small study, heterosexual couples were monitored after sexual activity. The results showed improved nasal breathing post-orgasm, which could serve as a natural remedy for nasal congestion.

When I share that I write about sex, I often encounter two reactions: awkward comments or people retreating, fearing my interests are too intense. However, writing about sex is no different from exploring any other scientific topic. It intersects with various fields—psychology, sociology, biology, health, and more.

Sex connects us to our humanity, and understanding it can enhance our relationships. So, the next time you meet a sex columnist, don’t hesitate to ask about that dream you had. You’re likely more normal than you think.