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Female orgasm frequency, correlates and measurement in the preconception period
Julia C Bond1,2, Samantha Schildroth1, Katrina Kezios1
1Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA.
Sexual Health
|June 22, 2026
Summary
Orgasm frequency in women trying to conceive is linked to relationship quality, bladder issues, and depression. Understanding these factors can improve preconception sexual wellbeing and guide future research.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Sexual Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Orgasm is crucial for sexual wellbeing, especially during the preconception period.
- Limited epidemiologic research exists on orgasm frequency and its determinants.
- Understanding factors influencing orgasm can enhance preconception care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To descriptively evaluate orgasm frequency among females attempting conception.
- To identify correlates of orgasm frequency, including sociodemographic, medical, and behavioral factors.
- To examine the relationship between orgasm frequency and orgasm intensity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized cross-sectional data from 6022 females in the Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO) cohort.
- Assessed orgasm frequency using a Likert scale and orgasm intensity on a 0-10 scale.
- Calculated standardized percentage-point differences for correlates of orgasm frequency.
Main Results:
- Over half of participants reported frequent orgasms ('always' to 'most times').
- Lower partner support, irritable bladder syndrome, diabetes, and depressive symptoms correlated with less frequent orgasms.
- Impaired sexual function in other domains was associated with reduced orgasm frequency.
Conclusions:
- Preconception orgasm frequency is influenced by relational, clinical, and sexual function factors.
- Findings highlight the need for comprehensive assessment of sexual health in preconception care.
- Implications for future etiologic research on orgasm are discussed.
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