Sex. When sweat is part of the pleasure: 3 reasons to see it differently

While sweating, especially when it is abundant, can be considered disgusting and associated with dirt, a study from the University of California at Berkeley (USA) shows that it can also increase arousal.

At least in heterosexual women. It is precisely exposure to androstadienone, a chemical compound found in high amounts in male sweat, that increases arousal levels in women.

Sweat can increase sexual arousal

In this study, this pheromone was also shown to be able to improve the mood of the participants. But these benefits only occur under one condition: being exposed to "fresh" perspiration.

Because when the sweat oxidized, about twenty minutes after the effort made by the male participants, the exciting effect disappeared.

Body odor plays a role in attraction

Each of us has a unique scent. When sweat comes into contact with bacteria on our skin, it produces body odor, which is influenced by genetic factors.

Studies have shown that this personal scent plays a role in sexual attraction.

This suggests that we are more attracted to the natural scent of partners who are genetically different from us. This phenomenon could be partly explained by natural selection.

Sweat, a source of stress that discriminates against women

Despite its naturalness and the importance of sweating in sexual attraction and arousal, many people consider it undesirable, even disgusting.

As a result, some people, particularly those suffering from hyperhidrosis, that is to say excessive sweating, experience discomfort with sweating during sexual intercourse.

This discomfort seems more marked among women, who are often subject to stricter standards of cleanliness by society.

However, the anxiety thus caused can reduce sexual pleasure or lead to the avoidance of certain intimate situations.