First surveys tell us women prefer Facebook over fondling in the bedroom and now results from the annual WomenTALK survey show that women may be having sex more out of obligation than enjoyment.

While half of women (51%) believe engaging in sexual activity a few times a week is considered sexually healthy, far fewer (30%) are engaging in sexual activity at this level. The majority (66%) reported they are engaging in sexual activity once a week or less often.

“The new research shows that women really don’t understand the physical benefits of an active sex life,” said Elizabeth Battaglino Cahill, RN, executive director of HealthyWomen. “Beyond the benefit of forming a closer bond with her partner, an active sex life can decrease stress, strengthen pelvic floor muscles, increase immune system function and burn calories.”

Naomi Greenblatt, M.D., a board certified psychiatrist specializing in women’s health, said, “There seems to be a growing trend in women having sex for obligation, not enjoyment purposes. Women say there are only 24 hours in the day, and they simply are not prioritizing sex.”

This is a common theme among most career women and mothers who are too tired to engage in sex after working and taking care of the home and kids, but I think most women understand the benefits of sex and would find it more enjoyable if they didn’t have so many other obligations getting in the way.

Do you find yourself engaging in sex more for enjoyment or obligation?

Brande Victorian is a blogger and culture writer in New York City. Follower her on Twitter at @be_vic.

More on Madame Noire!

• Making It: Stars Who Were Once Homeless
• Is His Appetite for Adult Films Killing Your Relationship?
• Ask The Luv Coach: “I’ve Got Drama With My Male Best Friend’s Girl”
• 10 Ways To Be A Better Friend
• 7 Silly Ways You Are Ruining Your Relationship
• Light Skinned Women: Let Go of the Guilt
• Should They Have Stayed? Flames Before The Fame and Fortune

Everyone is looking to get more pleasure out of life. CNN has 10 tips on how to make life more enjoyable.

Read the rest of this entry »