A new study from Carnegie Mellon University indicates that having more sex does not make couples happier. (Source: CMU.edu)

Specifically, researchers conducted an experiment with male-female married couples. Over three months, one group was assigned to continue their regular sexual habits. The second group was assigned to have sex twice as often as usual.

During the experiment, happiness levels were monitored for both groups.

More popular and trending stories

The group having sex twice as often as usual actually reported a slight decrease in happiness. Specifically, they reported feeling lower sexual desire and less sexual satisfaction.

"We find that increased frequency does not lead to increased happiness, perhaps because it leads to a decline in wanting for, and enjoyment of, sex," the researchers said.

Researchers said being assigned to have sex more frequently may have undermined the resulting pleasure. If the study were repeated, they said, they might encourage participants to focus on the quality and not just the quantity of encounters.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Foo Fighters closed out Shaky Knees 2024 at Central Park with extended versions of their biggest hits. The indie rock festival has moved to Piedmont Park for this weekend's event. (Ryan Fleisher for the AJC)

Credit: Ryan Fleisher

Featured

In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com