Abstract
To understand the physical demands of sexual intercourse, it is necessary to monitor the kinematic parameters of this activity using relatively non-invasive technology. The aims of this study are to analyze the validity and reliability of an inertial device for monitoring the range of motion at the pelvis during simulated intercourse and compare the range of motion (ROM). Twenty-six adults were monitored during intercourse using an inertial device (WIMU) and a motion capture system (gold standard) in a test that consisted of 4 sets of 20 simulated in–out cycles (IOC) in missionary and cowgirl positions. Men and women were tested separately in a laboratory setting for simulated intercourse aims. There were no differences between the WIMU and the gold standard system at fast pace (p > 0.05), whereas there were differences at slow pace (~2.04°; p ≤ 0.05; d = 0.17). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for the relationship between systems was very close to 1 at both paces (slow: 0.981; fast: 0.998). The test–retest reliability analysis did not show any difference between sets of measurements. In conclusion, WIMU could be considered as a valid and reliable device for IOC range of motion monitoring during sexual intercourse in missionary and cowgirl positions.
Highlights
Sexual activity has been recognized as an essential, integral aspect of human life [1]
There were differences between the systems at slow paces (~2.04◦, p < 0.001), but the effect size was very small (d = 0.17) and the difference between systems was lower than the standard error of the measurement (SEM = 2.34◦ )
There were no significant differences between the systems (~0.24◦, p > 0.05)
Summary
Sexual activity has been recognized as an essential, integral aspect of human life [1]. Various studies have shown that sexual activity may have mental health benefits and improve cognitive functioning [3]. It may work as an anti-stress therapy by increasing levels of oxytocin [4], which inhibits the action of cortisol [5]. Sexual activity decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease [1]. Frequent sexual activity can increase vasodilatory capacity, improve the functioning of the vascular wall of the arteries and veins and improve the efficiency with which oxygen is provided to the muscles, promoting cardiovascular health [6]
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