parasomnia-related stories
Forget about sleepwalking -- some people have sleepsex!
I've heard of sleepwalking. I've heard of people talking in their sleep. I even had a boyfriend that could deliver a mean kick while sound asleep. But this is the first time I've ever heard of people having sex while asleep. Scientists have coined the phenomenon "sleepsex" and it's part of a range of behaviors called parasomnia where people engage in activities other than sleep while sleeping.
Researchers have concluded that pretty much any basic activity that can be done during waking hours -- including eating, walking, talking, and yes, even sex -- can be done by some people while asleep. Thirty-one (31) people who experienced sexual behavior during sleep were studied. And, 42% of men studied engaged in intercourse while asleep. Women were more likely to speak, moan, or otherwise vocally express themselves in a sexual manner. Both genders masturbated while sleeping.
Researchers stressed that people who engage in sleepsex do not have a mental disorder. The behavior is unconscious, just like sleepwalking or other more commonly known sleep behaviors. However, sleepsex is obviously disturbing to the individuals and to their partners. Any unconscious behavior leaves people at risk for harming themselves or others. Sedatives can be prescribed for people dealing with any form of parasomnia.
Researchers have concluded that pretty much any basic activity that can be done during waking hours -- including eating, walking, talking, and yes, even sex -- can be done by some people while asleep. Thirty-one (31) people who experienced sexual behavior during sleep were studied. And, 42% of men studied engaged in intercourse while asleep. Women were more likely to speak, moan, or otherwise vocally express themselves in a sexual manner. Both genders masturbated while sleeping.
Researchers stressed that people who engage in sleepsex do not have a mental disorder. The behavior is unconscious, just like sleepwalking or other more commonly known sleep behaviors. However, sleepsex is obviously disturbing to the individuals and to their partners. Any unconscious behavior leaves people at risk for harming themselves or others. Sedatives can be prescribed for people dealing with any form of parasomnia.
