Do Women Burn Calories During Sex or Not?
I know this has been your excuse for skipping the gym at least once in your life. (It’s definitely been mine.) But let's get real for a second;
Do women actually burn calories during sex?
And if so, how many? Because let’s face it, on average, we’re not always the most active in the bedroom. Or at least, we don’t talk about it much.
No shade if you’ve ever assumed the role of a pillow princess, same here. But back to the question: Do women burn calories during sex or not?
Yes, Women Burn Calories During Sex
But (you knew that was coming) the answer is a little complicated, because what in life isn’t? While it’s true that men typically burn more calories during sex, women are still getting in a decent burn, especially if they’re doing more than just lying there.
Research shows that women burn around 69 calories on average per session, compared to about 101 calories for men.
What Affects How Many Calories Women Burn During Sex?
The number of calories you burn during sex isn’t universal. It varies based on:
-
Your weight
-
How long you're active
-
The sexual positions you use
-
Your intensity level
-
Your age and fitness level
If you’ve ever done reverse cowgirl on a chair, you already know: that position is nothing but squats, baby. Your thighs are on fire, your brain is cycling between pleasure and pain, and honestly, that has to count for something.
So, yes, if your thighs are burning and you're out of breath, you’re definitely burning some real calories.
Sex Positions That Burn the Most Calories for Women
Let’s call them what they are: sexercises. The more physically demanding the position, the more calories you’ll torch.
Top calorie-burning sex positions for women:
-
Cowgirl / Reverse Cowgirl – All quads, all core
-
Standing – Hello, full-body balance
-
Woman-on-top variations – Control equals cardio
-
Edge of the bed / chair positions – Engage legs and core big time
If you’re doing the work, you’re reaping the burn. And yes, you might be able to skip leg day.
Other Benefits of Sex for Women (Beyond Burning Calories)
So, yes, sex burns calories, but that’s not all it does. It also comes with a range of mental and physical perks, especially for women.
Sex Can Relieve Period Cramps
Let’s talk about period sex for a sec. It might sound like a no-go for some, but here’s the science: orgasms cause muscle contractions that help reduce tension in the uterus.
Period cramps are basically your uterus doing a hardcore workout (a.k.a. shedding its lining). An orgasm offers a counter-stretch, like a satisfying post-leg-day stretch for your uterus. That can bring real relief.
Sex Releases Feel-Good Hormones
Having sex (especially when you orgasm) stimulates the pituitary gland, releasing a cocktail of mood-boosting chemicals:
-
Endorphins (natural painkillers)
-
Dopamine (reward + motivation)
-
Serotonin (mood stabilizer)
-
Oxytocin (connection + bonding)
-
Acetylcholine (cognitive and emotional balance)
So yes, sex can make you feel happy, relaxed, and connected, and it may even help reduce anxiety.
It Helps You Sleep Better
After good sex, you might feel more than just satisfied, you might feel sleepy. That’s no accident. Sex (again, especially with an orgasm) can help you unwind, lower cortisol (your stress hormone), and set you up for a restful night’s sleep.
FAQs
Do women burn more calories during sex if they’re on top?
Yes! Woman-on-top positions engage the thighs, glutes, and core, making it more physically intense and calorie-burning.
Can sex replace exercise?
Not entirely. It offers some cardiovascular benefits, but it shouldn’t replace regular workouts. Think of it as a fun bonus burn.
How many calories does sex burn for women on average?
Roughly 69 calories per session, but this can increase with movement, duration, and position.