The best time to have sex will vary for each couple, but there are some times of day that are more ideal than others. As a certified sex and relationship expert, Tammy Nelson, PhD tells mbg, each time of day has its own benefits.
For example, morning sex can help you overcome nighttime grogginess and male testosterone levels peak, which means more stamina.
Morning
In the morning, you’re not only awake and energized but also in peak hormone production. And that means that you and your partner can make the most of every sensual moment, from the moment you get out of bed to the moment you’re laying in the sheets together.
Men and women’s bodies produce higher levels of testosterone (and estrogen, which also impacts sexual desire) in the morning than at any other time of day. Plus, when you’re well-rested, your energy levels are at their highest—and so is your stamina, which can help you last longer during sex.
Morning sex is especially great for couples who want to focus on oral sex. Since you’re both fresh and clean, there are fewer distractions to distract from the experience—no worrying about morning breath or lingering sweat from your workout. You can also focus on exploring more intimate ways to seduce each other, like sucking, licking, and caressing—all of which can give you an orgasm.
Plus, if you choose to have sex in the morning, you’re likely to burn more calories than if you got your thrills in the evening (sex is a mood booster and body-immunity booster, too). So if you want to feel your best for a day full of Zoom meetings and presentations, wake up early and turn on the sex machine.
Afternoon
The afternoon is a great time for sex because you’re not fucking through morning grogginess or night-time exhaustion. It’s also not as busy, so you can have all the foreplay and pleasure scenes you want.
According to hormone expert Alisa Vitti, author of the hormone guide WomanCode, the best time for a heterosexual couple to have sex is bang on 3pm. She says this is because both men and women are in tune with each other’s hormones and desires at this point. Men’s testosterone levels are at their peak at this time, while women’s oestrogen is elevated, making them more emotionally present during sex.
For women, this also means that they’re more likely to give their partners what they want from sex in the form of oral and vaginal stimulation. It also means that they’re more likely to orgasm, which is a win for both parties.
Plus, if you’re both feeling horny in the afternoon, you can try some new positions or locations that might open up your sexual world, which could make it even more exciting. Getting creative in the bedroom can lead to new orgasms and make you feel even closer to your partner.
Evening
Evening is ideal if you’re not an early riser or are a night owl. It may not be the most natural time for sex, but it’s also when sperm are most likely to reach and fertilize an egg. This is when cervical mucus is at its highest, which enhances sperm motility and helps them to survive longer. If you have kids or a hectic work schedule, evening sex can be a great option for a more relaxed date night.
Hormone expert Alisa Vitti suggests the ideal time for sex is right around 3 p.m. for opposite-sex couples, as this is when hormone levels are at their peak. Men experience a testosterone boost and women have high cortisol levels, making this the optimal window for intimacy.
It’s important to find a balance with your partner, especially if you have different sex timing preferences. Finding a common ground, like morning sex or evening sex, is the best way to create a mutually beneficial rhythm. If you have a busy lifestyle, try to do activities that don’t require penetration—like oral sex or sensual massages. Just be sure to keep communication lines open and have a backup plan in case one of you isn’t able to make it on the agreed upon day or time.
Thursday
While it’s true that every couple’s sex schedule is different, experts agree that having the deed a few times a week will help you feel closer to your partner. And it’s also a great way to keep sperm moving.
That said, there is one time of day that seems to be better for sex than others: the morning. According to a survey by supplement company Forza, the ideal time for sex is 7:30 a.m. Apparently, this is when both men and women are at their peak energy levels (due to higher testosterone and less stress) and their bodies are the most ready to meet each other for love making.
Having sex in the morning can also improve your chances of getting pregnant, because cervical mucus is highest in the days leading up to ovulation. That’s because cervical mucus helps sperm get to the egg and survive. (Just don’t confuse it with a sign of an infection or irritation, which could signal an issue with your cervix or the fallopian tubes.)
Of course, if you and your partner are both happy to just fuck whenever you want, then go for it! But if you’re trying to have kids, strategizing your sex timing might be worth the effort. After all, as certified sex therapist Tammy Nelson tells mbg, figuring out the best time of day can strengthen your intimate connection and increase your confidence.