If you love celebrating Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Christmas, or if none of the holidays suit your style, the closing month of the year usually encompasses amusement and merriment. But does the holiday season tend to fuel more amorous behavior? Are people getting frisky around the holidays due to an abundance of mistletoe, or does staying at a friend or family member’s home during the winter break lean towards a more abstinent experience? Moreover, what is the general etiquette when it comes to engaging in sexual activity in someone else’s home?
To answer these commonly posed questions about holiday hookups, breakups, and sexual conduct, we sought the insight of two eminent sexologists.
Do Holiday Parties Lead to More Random Hookups?
According to sexologist, Michelle Hope, holiday parties consist of an intoxicating mix of festivities, nostalgia, and mistletoe that can lead to more spontaneous encounters. She points out that indulging in alcoholic beverages at these events can, however, have some drawbacks. While alcohol can make conversations and interactions flow more easily, it should not impair a person’s ability to make clear and conscious decisions. Flirting at holiday events can be fun, but it’s essential to ensure that both parties are fully able to give and receive consent.
What About Breakups?
Expert Dr. Logan Levkoff explains that during fall and winter, many single individuals tend to find partners to avoid feelings of loneliness in what is known as the “cuffing season”. Despite these temporary liaisons, not all partnerships withstand the test of the holidays, and the season can sometimes serve as a reality check for a relationship’s future. The pressure of the holiday season can drive individuals to assess the state of a relationship and decide whether they envision themselves with their partner the following year. As a result, January has earned a reputation as “National Breakup Month”.
Sex Etiquette as an Overnight Guest
If sleeping over at a relative’s home or having overnight guests in your own space, it is generally acceptable to engage in sexual activity as long as it is done respectfully and discreetly without causing inconvenience to others. However, it is essential to keep the volume down and be mindful of cleaning up after yourself if you are staying at someone else’s home.
Holiday Hookups and Car Sex
Regarding holiday hookups that take place in situations where privacy is limited, sexologists point out that while this could lead individuals to seek alternate locations such as a parked car, it may not be the most practical choice for everyone involved. Although sex in a car is not illegal, the act itself could lead to negative legal repercussions if performed in a public setting. Therefore, it is important to exercise caution when considering this option.
Is There a Holiday Baby Boom?
Despite a popular perception, there is indeed a spike in conceptions that occur about nine months after the holiday season. However, it is less about festivities and more about biological factors, such as how sperm are known to thrive in cooler weather. It is advised to stock up on contraception along with holiday supplies if planning to avoid pregnancy.
Are Sex Toys Suitable as Stocking Stuffers?
Both experts agree that sex toys can make for a thoughtful and enjoyable gift, but they advise discretion in terms of when and how they should be presented – especially if it involves opening in the presence of others. It is crucial to recognize a partner’s preferences and comfort levels when it comes to gifting sex toys.
Christmas Ornaments as Sex Toys?
While some unconventional methods for sexual satisfaction might raise eyebrows, experts warn against using Christmas ornaments or other household items due to the potential hazards and hygiene concerns they pose. With an abundance of safe and effective sex toys available on the market, it is best to opt for those rather than resorting to holiday decorations.
Martha Kempner is a writer and sexual health expert. She is the author of the weekly newsletter Sex on Wednesday.
