Research at Penn State Erie has shown that satisfactory sexual intercourse lasts from 3 to 13 minutes.

In order to determine this, the researchers surveyed 50 full members of the Society for Sex Therapy and Research, which include psychologists, physicians, social workers, marriage/family therapists, and nurses who have collectively seen thousands of patients over several decades.

The participants assessed a range of time for sexual intercourse that they considered adequate, desirable, too short, and too long. The results were that “adequate” was considered 3-7 minutes, “desirable” was 7-13 minutes, “too short” was 1-2 minutes, and “too long” was 10-30 minutes.

These results are contrary to the popular belief that hours are required for sexual intercourse to be considered “good” or “great”. I think that what is “good” or “great” for one couple is up to them. If it takes just a few minutes, then that is good for them. If more time is required, then that is good too. I think communication and honesty is vital for a healthy sex life.

Reference: Penn State Erie