Survey examines changes in sexual behaviour and attitudes in Britain

New results published in The Lancet as part of the third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal) survey reveal how sexual behaviour and attitudes in Britain have changed in recent decades. Data from three Natsal studies, carried out every ten years, demonstrate changes in age at first sex, number of sexual partners, and prevalence of sexual practices, as well as attitudes towards sex. Researchers from UCL, the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and NatCen Social Research, ed 15,162 people aged 16-74 resident in Britain during 2010-12. The survey was originally carried out in 1990-91 and then again in 1999-2001, but only amongst people 16-44 years. This time round for the first time, the survey has recorded behaviour patterns and attitudes in those up to age 74. Changing sexual behaviour. Over the last 60 years, age at first heterosexual intercourse has declined to an average [median] of 16 years among 16-24 year olds.