A new survey of over 5,000 adults across England has revealed the counties with the highest and lowest average weekly sexual activity. Rutland leads the list with 2.69 times per week, followed by Berkshire (2.37) and Buckinghamshire (2.31). The West Midlands (2.05), Shropshire (2.02), and Greater London (2.01) also feature in the top ten, while Norfolk has the lowest frequency at 0.92 times per week.
The study, conducted by Simba in collaboration with The Sleep Charity, also highlights poor bedtime habits. It found that 65% of adults regularly fail to get the NHS-recommended minimum of seven hours of sleep, with 34% describing their sleep quality as 'poor'. Nearly a quarter of respondents watch TV or stream in bed, 20% scroll social media, 17% shop online, and 14% game or make phone calls.
Lisa Artis, Deputy CEO at The Sleep Charity, emphasised the importance of reserving the bed for the 'three S's': sleep, sex, and sickness. She noted that using the bed for other activities can prevent the brain from associating it with rest. 'By designating your bed as somewhere to rest, connect with a partner, or have orgasms, you make your room a sanctuary for better sleep,' she said.
The survey also found that less than a quarter of adults follow the 'three S's' rule. Experts warn that screen use before bed disrupts the natural circadian rhythm, leading to increased anxiety and a weakened immune system. The findings underscore the need to improve sleep hygiene across the UK.
