Rhianna Benson
In recent years, members of the Gen Z community have voiced increasing complaints about failing to land themselves any action between the sheets - apparently, it's not for lack of trying.
That's right, casual sex and one night stands are said to be at an all time low in individuals aged between 18-28.
But why? Apparently, this staggering dry spell is due to economic restraints.
The cost of living crisis has had UK residents - as well as citizens of a number of other Western countries - in a heartbreaking chokehold for several years now.
Advert
To put it simply, the cost of basic, essential goods - especially food, water, heating, rent, and hygiene products - has skyrocketed recently as a result of inflation, which is triggered by factors such as high energy demands, geopolitical events, and global supply chain disruptions.
As a result, many people are having to choose between feeding their families, filling their car with petrol, or taking a hot shower, whilst younger people are battling the very real possibility of never being able to afford to move out of their parents' homes.
Rental fees have never been higher, and with the majority of salaries failing to meet ever-growing inflation costs, late-teens and those in their 20s are having to come to terms with either saving up for years upon years on end, or residing in their childhood bedroom for the foreseeable future.
Apparently, it is this gut-wrenching reality - reportedly referred to by the cool kids as 'friendflation' - that supposedly explains why non-committal, physical romances are something of a rarity nowadays.
Because let's face it, it's hard to get into the sexy mood with a special visitor when your mum is excitedly watching The Traitors downstairs, or your dad has been hogging the upstairs loo.
Sex and relationship experts from LoveHoney recently conducted research to support this theory, finding that Gen Z members who reside with their family are only enjoying a romp in the hay an average of 36 times per year, compared to the national average of 68 times per year.
A spokesperson for LoveHoney said that because of their living situations, Gen Z are undergoing a 'intimacy crisis', adding: "They are often embarrassed to have sex when their parents are in the house."
Issuing advice on the matter, intimacy expert Annabelle Knight recently told Indy100 that planning is vital.
Instead of waiting for everyone in the house to go quiet, arrange your low-key rendezvous for when everyone is out. Not only might this make you feel more at ease, but it could also prevent awkward conversations in the kitchen the following morning.
"Whether it’s a gym session, a night out, or visiting family, use that window to really relax and enjoy intimacy without stress," Knight continued.
She also advised sexually active youngsters not to feel afraid to discuss the importance of intimate relationships with family, provided they feel close enough to them.
"You don’t have to overshare, but a simple, 'Hey, can I have the place for an hour?' is often easier than you think," Knight added.