Do inflammation and relational motivation coordinate having better sex? The interplay between C-reactive protein and relational approach motivation on sexual well-being.

ABSTRACT: Much evidence on heightened inflammation and social behavior focuses on social withdrawal. Building on recent theory (Muscatell and Inagaki, 2021), we focused instead on the socially affiliative experience of sex. We investigated the interplay between immunology and motivation on sexual well-being among 158 individuals in romantic relationships. Inflammation, indexed by C-reactive protein (CRP), and sexual well-being were measured multiple times over a month. Relational approach motivation (i.e., motivation toward rewards in relationships) was measured at study entry. Results revealed significant associations between CRP and sexual satisfaction and partnered orgasms frequency for those most motivated to approach rewards with their partner. Interaction effects were replicated with relations

SUBMITTER: Jolink TA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12582587 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature