A prominent psychologist has issued a stark warning to couples who engage in sexual activity between 10.30pm and 11.30pm, claiming this popular timeframe is biologically suboptimal for intimacy. Dr Michael Breus, a clinical psychologist and sleep specialist famously known as the Sleep Doctor, asserts that many partners are getting amorous at a time when their body's natural hormone levels are ill-suited for successful sexual encounters.
The Hormone Profile Problem
Speaking on the widely followed Diary of a CEO podcast, Dr Breus revealed that surveys indicate most couples are intimate during the late-night window between 10.30pm and 11.30pm. However, he emphasised that the hormone profile at this hour "doesn't look too good" for sex. For optimal sexual performance and connection, key hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, adrenaline, and cortisol need to be elevated, while melatonin should be low.
"What do you think your hormone profile looks like at 11.30 at night? It's literally the opposite," Dr Breus explained. "Melatonin is high and all those other things are low." This hormonal state, he argues, can hinder sexual satisfaction and physiological readiness.
The Morning Advantage
Instead, Dr Breus advocates for morning intimacy as the "perfect time" for sex. He points out that hormone levels are naturally higher in the morning, creating a more favourable biological environment. Additionally, he humorously noted that many biologically male partners wake with erections, which he described as "mother nature telling you to use that thing."
Backing his advice with survey data, Dr Breus reported that people experienced greater connection and performance when having sex in the morning. He recommended basic hygiene first—"brush your teeth and throw in a little mouthwash"—but concluded that the early hours offer prime conditions for intimacy.
Historical Data and Conflicting Views
This advice contrasts with a 2005 study among university students, which found a majority had sex between 11pm and 1am. That research concluded that factors like work schedules, family life, and partner availability heavily influence timing. Some respondents in that study also reported feeling "more sexual" at night, suggesting personal preferences vary.
Interestingly, around 16 percent of survey participants simply had sex because "they were in bed anyway," indicating convenience often dictates timing. The scientists noted that while adults find opportunities for sex at any time, most encounters cluster around bedtime (11pm to 1am), with a smaller peak at wake time.
Additional Sleep Advice
Beyond intimacy timing, Dr Breus offered tips for those waking between 1am and 3am needing the bathroom. He suggested that 70 percent of side-sleepers may be putting pressure on their bladders. His recommendation: upon waking, lie on your back for 25 seconds to see if the urge persists. If it does, use a strategically placed nightlight to avoid bright lights that disrupt melatonin production and signal the brain it's morning.
Dr Breus's insights blend sleep science with relationship advice, challenging common nighttime routines while promoting morning alternatives for enhanced wellbeing and intimacy.
