THE J SPOT
Sober Sex: The New Turn-On
Safe Bodies: Consent as the Cornerstone of Healthy Intimacy
Less buzz, more presence. Sober sex is having a moment. And for good reason.

When you remove the fog of alcohol or sub
stances, what’s left is something radically intimate: clearer communication, heightened sensation, and genuine connection (read: less performance, more presence). Plus, without the aftermath of a hangover or the fuzzy memory of “wait… did we?”—you get all the fun and none of the regret.
According to a 2024 survey by adult retailer Lovehoney, 51% of Australians now prefer sober sex, citing enhanced pleasure, intimacy, and connection. Notably, 69% have had sex while drunk, but many are re-evaluating the role of alcohol in their sexual experiences .
Sydney sex therapist Christine Rafe notes that Australians are becoming more aware of alcohol’s impact on their sexual experiences and relationships. As a result, they’re choosing to engage in sober sex more often, leading to more meaningful and satisfying connections .