Experts warn ‘safety first’ as couples get rompy during Christmas
The Christmas holiday season often sees an uptick in certain types of injuries, with experts noting a significant rise in sex-related mishaps, including a dramatic 234% increase in searches for “penile fracture” on Google during this festive period.
Research from FeetFinder highlights that the festive spirit might lead to some unexpected outcomes in the bedroom. Data from the British Journal of Urology International shows that between 2005 and 2021, the likelihood of penile injuries notably increased among German men, especially those in their middle age, from December 24 to 26.
Nikolaos Pyrgidis, a leading urology researcher from the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, explains that penile fractures often result from “vigorous sexual activity,” with the organ sometimes resembling an aubergine after the injury. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that most penile fractures happen during missionary, cowgirl, or doggy-style positions. A tell-tale sign of such an injury is a cracking sound followed by pain and a rapid loss of erection.
“Despite not being life-threatening, some cases may require surgery and several weeks of recovery to prevent permanent sexual or urinary dysfunction.”
Ignoring the injury could lead to lifelong curvature, erectile dysfunction, or pain during erections.
In addition to penile fractures, other sex-related injuries also see a surge in searches during Christmas. Terms like “muscle strain during sex,” “sex injury,” and “swelling after sex” show increased interest, as per FeetFinder data.
Alcohol consumption
The question arises: why is there an increase in sexual activity during the holidays? Experts suggest that the festive atmosphere, combined with higher alcohol consumption, contributes to this trend. They emphasise that “safety is sexy,” advising couples to communicate boundaries, experiment slowly, and ensure proper use of sex toys.
“Alcohol reduces inhibitions, making activities more enjoyable but increasing the risk of mistakes or accidents. When trying new things, ensure both partners feel comfortable and well-prepared.”
This period often encourages people to try new experiences, driven by the festive spirit, alcohol consumption, and the desire to make holidays memorable. However, without proper safety measures, such experimentation can lead to unforeseen consequences. This is particularly true for couples attempting new positions, using sex toys for the first time, or engaging in role play without adequate preparation.
Notably, individuals aged 20 to 24 are at the highest risk of injury from sex toys. The risk varies across genders, with women aged 25 to 29 and men aged 55 to 59 being the most vulnerable groups. Overall, men face a higher likelihood of sex toy-related injuries compared to women over the past decade, reported Sanook.
