Gen Z Is Sticking to Sober Sex—And Say It’s Way Better

April 30, 2025

For years, it was normal to grab a drink before getting naked—to ease nerves, spark connection, or simply shut off inhibition. But today, a quiet revolution is unfolding in bedrooms around the world: sober sex is on the rise, and people are saying it’s way better.

A new ZipHealth survey of 1,000 adults (500 in the U.S., 500 in the U.K.) reveals that nearly half of participants report stronger orgasms when sober—a phenomenon some are calling a “sobergasm.”

❤️ The Rise of Real Intimacy

It’s not just about performance or climax. The numbers say sober sex may also be more emotionally rewarding:

• 43% of Brits and 33% of Americans said it deepened emotional connection with their partner.

• About 1 in 3 said sex felt more passionate, satisfying, and real.

• Others noted feeling more in control, confident, and connected—not just to a partner, but to themselves.

“Without alcohol, there’s no mask,” one Gen Z respondent shared. “You feel everything. The nerves, the pleasure, the closeness—it’s all raw and real.”

🧠 Why the Shift?

The sober sex movement isn’t a formal trend, but a generational shift in how intimacy is approached. While Gen Z is leading in open conversations about mental health, identity, and consent, it’s actually Boomers and Gen X who are embracing sober sex most actively.

According to the survey:

• 12% of Americans say they only have sex drunk.

• 16% of Americans admit they need a drink just to find their partner attractive (compared to 8% of Brits).

• Still, Americans overall were 44% more likely than Brits to identify with the “sober sex movement.”

🍆 Real Benefits—Beyond the Bedroom

For many, ditching the buzz means ditching bad sex. Those who went sober reported:

• Fewer casual hookups

• More intentional choices

• Improved communication in bed

• Better erectile performance and reduced premature ejaculation

It’s not always perfect, though. 16% admitted feeling more self-conscious without alcohol, struggling with body image or awkward silences. And yes—social pressure to drink before sex is still real, especially in dating culture.

But overall, the feedback is clear: less buzz can mean more bang.

🍸 Adults Villa’s Take

At Adults Villa, we celebrate every facet of sex—from experimental to emotional. Sober sex isn’t about judgment or purity—it’s about showing up fully present. For some, that means tapping into vulnerability. For others, it means truly feeling the connection, without filtering it through a shot glass.

The hottest thing in bed? Authenticity.