A recent study has provided insights into the average duration it takes for men to reach orgasm during sex and how these times change as men age.
When discussing sex, many questions arise beyond the basic biological mechanics, such as determining the ideal duration for sexual activity or assessing if a partner’s needs have been adequately met.
A common concern that often surfaces in relationships and is sometimes mocked by society is: how brief is considered too brief in the bedroom?
A 2024 study aims to address some of these concerns or adjust expectations by examining the average time it takes men to achieve orgasm during intercourse.
The study’s findings revealed that 95 percent of heterosexual men typically reach orgasm during sex, whereas only 65 percent of heterosexual women do.
Various factors can influence how quickly a man orgasms, including alcohol consumption, the timing of his last sexual encounter, and age.
It is important to recognize that these statistics represent averages. Health and sex experts recommend focusing more on personal and partner satisfaction rather than trying to meet these averages.
A separate 2025 study conducted by Lovehoney delved into how age impacts orgasm duration and provided a breakdown of the data.
According to this study, men in a specific age range last an average of 16.14 minutes in bed.
Speaking with Metro, Lovehoney’s sexual health expert, Sarah Mulindwa, elaborated: “In your 20s, excitement and novelty are high, which can lead to quicker climaxes, but recovery is fast, and stamina is generally good. At this stage, it’s all about pacing – using edging, breathwork, or condoms strategically can help build control.”
She further emphasized: “However, what matters most at any age is communication, technique, and pleasure – not the stopwatch.”
For those aged 25 to 34, the average duration increases slightly to 18.29 minutes.
Mulindwa noted, “Experience, rhythm, and better communication usually make sex feel smoother, though stress or time pressure can shave off minutes.”
As men age, the average duration begins to decline slightly, with a decrease to 17.4 minutes.
However, Mulindwa assures that this is not a cause for concern, as “hormonal changes and early erectile difficulties can affect pace, but many couples naturally focus more on foreplay, variety, and connection.”
In men over 50, the average duration until orgasm decreases to 14.14 minutes.
Mulindwa suggests that this reduction might be due to less predictable erections and increased variability in climax timing.
The study found a continuing downward trend, with men in this age range averaging 11.3 minutes.
Mulindwa added: “Intimacy, skill, and connection often deepen. Taking time with warm-ups, sensate focus, and incorporating toys can keep experiences pleasurable.”
For men over 65, the average duration drops further to 8.15 minutes.
Mulindwa highlighted the idea that there is “really no single right” duration for sexual encounters.
She concluded: “Overall, the data shows that mid-range sessions (roughly 10-15 minutes) are most common at any age, with very long encounters being rare. But the most important factors are mindset, technique, and communication. Couples who focus on connection, mix up sensations, and communicate openly consistently can experience higher satisfaction.”