These are the consequences of sleeping with a… See more

3. Emotional Consequences Can Vary

Not every sexual encounter produces emotional difficulties.

Some people experience intimacy as positive, comforting and strengthening within a relationship. Others may experience regret, anxiety, disappointment or emotional confusion afterward.

Research on couples and sleep also suggests that relationship quality and sleep can influence one another. Supportive relationships may promote better sleep, while conflict and relationship stress can contribute to sleep difficulties.

The important point is that there is no single emotional reaction that applies to everyone.

4. Sleeping Beside Someone Can Affect Sleep Quality

If the headline literally means sleeping beside another person, rather than sexual activity, there is another interesting consideration.

Studies have found that sharing a bed can increase movement and nighttime awakenings for some couples. At the same time, people may report feeling more satisfied with their sleep when their partner is beside them.

Snoring, different sleep schedules, temperature preferences and movement can all influence how well two people sleep together.

For some couples, occasionally sleeping separately may actually improve sleep without indicating a problem in the relationship.

5. Consent Matters Every Time

One of the most important aspects of sexual intimacy is consent.

Consent should be voluntary, informed and ongoing. Being in a relationship does not automatically mean that a person has consented to sexual activity.

A sleeping person cannot simply be assumed to have consented because they previously agreed to sexual activity.

Research examining sexual touching while someone is asleep has highlighted the importance of clearly understanding boundaries and consent.