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Are you getting enough?

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Good communication and variety can forestall sexual problems. Photo: Corbis
Good communication and variety can forestall sexual problems. Photo: Corbis
Good communication and variety can forestall sexual problems. Photo: Corbis
Are you getting enough sex? Perhaps not. Hong Kong men and women are satisfied with having sex an average 1.9 times and 1.6 times a week, respectively, according to a City University Community College 2011 survey of nearly 1,000 adults between 36 and 80 years old. By contrast, people in Greece prefer to have sex at least three times a week, according to a 2008 survey by British condom manufacturer Durex.

Sex isn't just intercourse, but any sexual activity that brings pleasure to the people involved. Research has demonstrated that safe, consensual sexual activity is related to good physical and mental health, and helps to keep a relationship alive.

If both partners are satisfied with the levels of sexual activity in their relationship, there is no problem. But if one partner wants more sexual activity than the other, this is likely to affect the relationship.

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So, for those Hongkongers who want more good sex, why aren't they getting it on, and how can they start?

There are many reasons why people find themselves having less sex in their relationships. Social factors, such as long working hours or jet lag, can induce tiredness, and living in small apartments with in-laws, domestic helpers or children can reduce the feasibility of private, uninterrupted sex.

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Although most like the idea of spontaneous sex, waiting for this can be self-defeating. Try planning sex dates: pick a time when you are less likely to be interrupted, arrange for others to be out, or go to a hotel, even for an hour. (Let's be honest, few people outside of Hollywood need that long.)

Where possible, make the environment fit with your fantasies of sexual and emotional intimacy, by using lighting, music and clothing. When planning dates, consider what might stop you from keeping them.

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