Longer days, more sunshine, better sleep and even warmer temperatures may all boost libido. Doctors explain why many people feel more interested in sex during summer – and how to enjoy it safely
As the UK reaches the height of summer following weeks of warm weather and long, sunny days, doctors say many people may be experiencing more than just a boost in mood. The combination of increased sunlight, rising vitamin D levels, changes in our body odour, and a more relaxed holiday mindset creates the perfect conditions for libido to peak in the middle of summer.
Dr Clair Grainger, a general practitioner from Superdrug Online Doctor, has revealed the ways in which the summer months can positively impact our sex lives and how we can make the most of it!
1. More sunlight increases sex hormones
One of the biggest differences between summer and winter is the amount of natural sunlight we get each day. These longer daylight hours help regulate our circadian rhythm and reduce melatonin production, which is the hormone responsible for making us feel sleepy. At the same time, increased sunlight boosts our “happy hormone”, serotonin, helping improve mood, energy levels and, in turn, sexual desire.
Research also suggests that for men this is particularly important, with greater exposure to sunlight supporting testosterone production.
To maximise the benefits of summer sunlight hours, aim to spend at least 20–30 minutes outdoors in natural daylight each day, ideally in the morning to kick-start your day with a great mood and to avoid energy-draining hot afternoon sun.
2. Less stress, more holidays and better sleep
For many people, summer also brings annual leave, weekends away and more opportunities to relax outdoors, naturally reducing our stress levels.
When we’re stressed, the body produces more cortisol, which can suppress sex hormones and reduce libido in both men and women. Taking time away from work, sleeping better, and switching off from daily pressures can help cortisol levels fall.
Superdrug Online Doctor’s latest research reflects this seasonal shift in behaviour. More than half of sexually active adults (54%) have had a casual sexual encounter while on holiday, while 16% admit they have travelled abroad specifically for casual sex or a hook-up, suggesting that being away from everyday routines can significantly increase our sexual appetites.
3. Warmer temperatures improve sexual function
Continued hot weather can also affect our blood flow, causing our blood vessels to dilate naturally, which improves circulation.
For men, healthy blood flow is key for achieving and maintaining erections, and for women, increased blood flow to the genital area can enhance sensitivity and lubrication.
Adding regular exercise into your routine during the summer months can amplify these effects by further improving cardiovascular health and circulation.
4. Seasonal smell may subtly increase attraction
Summer doesn’t just change how we feel, it also changes how we smell.
As temperatures rise, we naturally sweat more, which increases the release of our body’s natural pheromones. Research suggests our natural body odour can influence how attractive we perceive someone to be.
Combined with spending more time outdoors, socialising and meeting new people, these biological cues may help explain why attraction often feels heightened during the summer months.
5. Rising vitamin D supports sexual health
Vitamin D naturally increases during the summer thanks to greater exposure to sunlight and plays an important role in overall health.
It is also linked to healthy testosterone production, a key sex hormone.
While vitamin D isn’t a miracle cure for a low sex drive, maintaining healthy levels can help support overall sexual and general wellbeing. Alongside spending time safely outdoors, you can boost your vitamin D intake by eating vitamin D-rich foods such as oily fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, egg yolks, and dairy.
As summer libidos rise, so do sexual health risks, doctor warns
While a higher libido is a natural part of the summer months, it’s important not to let the excitement of a holiday, festival or new relationship come at the expense of your sexual health.
Superdrug Online Doctor’s research also found that only one in five (21%) sexually active adults have never taken an STI test before travelling, while among those who had a casual sexual encounter abroad, only 40% got tested after returning home.
More concerningly, 13% of people who had a casual sexual encounter while abroad reported contracting an STI as a result, rising to one in five (20%) among those who hooked up at a festival.
If you’re travelling abroad, attending festivals or meeting new partners this summer, remember to pack condoms before you leave and don’t assume you’re free from risk simply because someone has no symptoms—many STIs are asymptomatic. If you’ve had unprotected sex or sex with a new partner, arrange an STI test once the recommended testing window has passed, even if you feel completely well.
