Who Wants Sex More: Men or Women? Surprising Study Reveals the Truth | 2025 Data

By Nimcy Manu
New York, June 1, 2025

A groundbreaking shift in the conversation around sexual desire challenges the long-held stereotype that men always want sex more than women. Recent studies and clinical observations suggest that in many heterosexual relationships, women often crave more sexual intimacy—but relational dynamics, emotional disconnect, and uninspired routines stifle their desire.

The Desire Gap: What Research Shows
A 2024 study published in the Journal of Sex Research analyzed over 1,000 couples and found that in 65% of long-term relationships, women reported higher sexual desire than their male partners. In 25% of cases, women expressed frustration over mismatched libidos, citing lack of emotional connection and poor sexual quality as key factors.

Dr. Emily Morse, a Los Angeles-based sex therapist, echoes these findings. "In my practice, I’ve seen countless women who deeply crave sex—but not the kind they’re having," she explains. "When sex becomes routine, mechanical, or disconnected from emotional intimacy, women disengage. It’s not a lack of desire; it’s a lack of fulfillment."

Why Women "Stop Asking"
Experts highlight two major barriers to women’s sexual satisfaction in committed relationships:

Lack of Novelty

A 2023 Kinsey Institute report found that 78% of women admitted to "checking out" during routine sex. Incorporating novelty—new settings, toys, or role-playing—can reignite excitement. Dr. Morse’s team offers a "Sexual Bucket List" to help couples break monotony.

Emotional Disconnect

Resentment over unequal chores, childcare, or poor communication kills desire. "Women need to feel emotionally safe to be sexually open," says Dr. Rachel Needle, a psychologist specializing in intimacy. A 2025 Couples Therapy Journal study linked daily "rituals of connection" (e.g., 5-minute check-ins, shared activities) to 40% higher sexual frequency.

A New York Case Study
Brooklyn residents Sarah and Mark (names changed), married for 12 years, sought therapy after Sarah’s desire plummeted. "He’d come home stressed, bark orders, then wonder why I wasn’t in the mood," Sarah shared. Through therapy, they implemented daily walks and "no-screens" bedtime talk—resulting in a rekindled sex life.

The Takeaway
The narrative that men are always the higher-desire partners is outdated. "Desire is contextual," says Morse. "When relationships prioritize emotional intimacy and adventure, women’s desire often surpasses men’s."

What’s Next?
Couples are encouraged to:

Discuss unmet needs openly.

Introduce small, daily connection habits.

Experiment with new sexual experiences.

"The goal isn’t more sex—it’s better sex," Morse emphasizes.

Share your thoughts: Have you experienced this dynamic in your relationship? Comment below.

#DesireGap #ModernIntimacy