A scientist, though, would phrase the same question in an almost comically obscure way: What is the mean intravaginal ejaculation latency time? Measuring an average time to ejaculation is not a straightforward matter. What about just asking people how long they take , you say? Well, there are two main problems with this. The best study we have estimating the average time to ejaculation in the general population involved couples from around the world timing themselves having sex over a four-week period — using a stopwatch. You may note this could affect the mood somewhat, and might perhaps not exactly reflect the natural flow of things.

We expect sex to last for about thirty minutes, surveys suggest. And most recently, some not-so-scientific data collected by sauceydates. Data notwithstanding, psychophysiologist and neuroscientist Nicole Prause is skeptical. That ratio can vary from person to person, on a case-by-case basis, but odds are that most women prefer less penetration, because they are more likely to experience pain as a result of vaginal intercourse. But for men who still want a number to shoot for, the closest thing to a magic one is … whatever their partner tells them.

Let's talk about sex, specifically how long it lasts. Sometimes it's way too short, and you're thinking, Did he seriously just finish? In 30 seconds? Other times it's way too long, and you feel like your vagina might break at any moment.