It’s the most wonderful time of the year…

Fall!

I know, I know. You were thinking Christmas. While that may bring to mind things like presents, hot chocolate, family get-togethers, and many more wonderful memories, there is scientific evidence that autumn is one of the most wonderful times of the year. In fact, there’s proof that it’s the sexiest.

How do we know? Well, humans and animals share a lot of characteristics. Many large animals prepare for a long winter of hibernating by getting busy before the cold weather hits.

Human sex hormones, like testosterone, peak in the fall. And it’s not just men. Testosterone production for women doubles in the fall; comparatively it’s at its lowest in the summer. This means that, once those leaves start changing, you and your partner have a higher sex drive. This is more true for women, where testosterone is used to boost libido. Why not make the most of it? There are many subtle ways you can let your partner know it’s sexy time. Try on some new lingerie or a new scent that will pique their interest.

If you’re feeling tired, moody, or concerned about weight gain, this may mean you have low testosterone (even with the effects of fall) and could mean it’s time to start taking a testosterone supplement. Make sure to check in with your doctor before taking a supplement or if you have questions. You can also increase testosterone naturally by living a healthy lifestyle. This includes exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and eating a well-rounded diet that contains plenty of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

So, libido is higher but what else do we know about seasons and getting cozy under the covers? Scientists found when the length of day and night are equal (during an equinox) and temperatures are between 50 and 70 degrees, that’s the best time for a roll in the hay (hopefully not in a hay maze but you do you). These two factors point to, you guessed it, fall.

You may be thinking, “Wait a minute… spring also has those very same things. Why isn’t spring the sexiest?”

Well, scientists aren’t exactly sure just yet. There are a few possible explanations:

  1. There’s more food available in the summer, so we have more energy from the extra fat stores in the fall for time to play in the bedroom.
  2. It’s still pretty cold around the Spring Equinox and therefore harder to turn up the heat. Do you remember the last time you instigated foreplay when you or your partner was cold? I’m covered up with a blanket when I need warmth.

The dog days of Summer are over. As kids head back to school and back to learning, now is a great opportunity to test out the science behind sex! Do you feel an increase in libido? Let us know with #pureromance.

Tori Tromblay

Tori Tromblay

Special Projects Producer
Tori Tromblay (she/her/hers) is a book enthuisiast, cat lover, and Cincinnati native. She graduated from Ohio University with a degree in journalism. After traveling to New York, D.C., London, and Tulsa, she settled back home, where she lives with her husband and two cats. She has worked for Pure Romance for two years and loves to learn and teach about sex education.