Sex
![](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/C386QxjXScmL58xwCqGuZb-433-80.jpg)
Sex and sexuality is about more than just two people, a bed, and a few aphrodisiacs. Scientists study why humans have sexual intercourse (it is good for you and good for the species) and how sex is driven by evolution, genes, emotions and more. There is also much to learn about the differing roles of men and women in the whole mating game. Yes, there's lots of science to explore. Not that an aphrodisiac isn't more fun.
Latest about Sex
![A cropped photo of a couple in bed where only their ankles and feet can be seen. They are intertwined with a white blanket between them.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/VgqNV3zhwSapoes8jXS3V8-320-80.jpg)
Sex leaves 'microbial traces' on genitalia, even when a condom is used — scientists call it the 'sexome'
By Emily Cooke published
A new study has revealed that, during sex, male and female partners leave unique microbial "imprints" on each other, even when they use a condom.
![illustration of the X chromosome floating next to a Y chromosome. Both are depicted in green and yellow.](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/CEH9tUoLd7GQZn82H3k9d4-320-80.jpg)
Scientists made mice with Y chromosomes female by deleting just 6 tiny molecules
By Sahana Sitaraman published
Scientists discovered that removing specific molecules from developing mice can completely reverse their sex from male to female.
![close up photo on a 3d model of the human spinal cord placed in front of clinicians in scrubs getting ready for surgery](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/83saNwZFyTDA92gcxHMDBg-320-80.jpg)
Man's years of premature ejaculation had a rare cause
By Nicoletta Lanese published
A case report describes a rare case of a so-called Tarlov cyst causing a man to experience a common type of sexual dysfunction.
![Close up of a man's open palm as he pours out two Viagra pills from a pill bottle](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gowbQXwpx7vuVxUyYXS9Go-320-80.jpg)
Viagra alternatives? Study of mouse erections hints at new ways to treat erectile dysfunction
By Nicoletta Lanese published
A new study reveals the importance of specific cells in triggering erections in mice, and the finding could someday help treat erectile dysfunction in people.
![Close-up of a male astronaut in a space suit with a helmet looking up past the camera](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/s7gAMDrQJQpFgAYYKkzQ6i-320-80.jpg)
Erectile dysfunction risk may rise on lengthy space missions, rat study reveals
By Emily Cooke published
Exposure to cosmic radiation and weightlessness in space could increase the risk of astronauts developing erectile dysfunction, according to research in rats.
![Composite image of the male mouse brain, shown in cross section, with the preoptic hypothalamus highlighted in green and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis in a pinkish red](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/zm5rBbfmHDen2TiwM5XXQe-320-80.jpg)
'Sex drive switch' discovered in male mouse brain that kicks their libido into overdrive
By Emily Cooke published
In a mouse study, scientists identified a collection of neurons that regulate sexual behavior in males, and they think humans may have a similar circuit.
![closeup of an adult's hand holding a swab used for STI testing in a sealed package, a sample collection tube, and a piece of paper that reads "chlamydia pcr testing" at the top](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/eiuBNY9tcihUGe53XSiLYn-320-80.jpg)
Why are sexually transmitted infections on the rise in the US?
By Carissa Wong published
Surging STIs are being driven by a "perfect storm" of factors in the U.S.
![young couple embracing at a barbecue with friends](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/HrNuDwzDm2UHqUe7mgq6K-320-80.jpg)
6 interesting effects of oxytocin
By Lou Mudge last updated
It might be known as the "love hormone", but there are many different effects of oxytocin.
Sign up for the Live Science daily newsletter now
Get the world’s most fascinating discoveries delivered straight to your inbox.