A nationwide survey by Asda Online Doctor has revealed a major gap in sexual health knowledge among UK adults, with 46% unable to answer basic questions on topics such as anatomy, menstruation, and sexually transmitted infections. The study, which involved more than 2,000 sexually active adults, highlights widespread misconceptions and a growing reliance on sources such as Google and AI platforms. These trends raise concerns about the accuracy of information and its impact on public health.
The results showed that nearly half of respondents either gave incorrect answers or admitted they did not know the correct ones. Common misunderstandings included the purpose and effectiveness of PrEP in preventing HIV and confusion around the average erect penis size in the UK. Alarmingly, 34% still believe the old myth that men think about sex every seven seconds. This belief equates to more than 8,000 thoughts per day. Additionally, 17% said they had experienced an injury during sex, showing how misinformation can have real-life consequences.
Widespread myths continue to shape sexual beliefs
Misconceptions are not limited to biology or disease prevention. Beliefs about sexual behaviour and satisfaction also remain flawed. Many respondents continue to accept myths as fact, leading to anxiety and poor decision-making. For example, 12% said their level of experience was a source of anxiety in the bedroom. The idea that sexual knowledge is intuitive remains common, even though access to education is still lacking.
People are turning to unverified online sources
The study also examined where people seek sexual health advice. Fewer than half of UK adults said they would go to a doctor first. Instead, over 12% rely on Google, and 8% turn to AI platforms such as ChatGPT. A related study by Asda Online Doctor found that nearly one in four AI-generated medical responses included serious errors, often overlooking key issues such as HIV or ovarian cancer. This is especially concerning when embarrassment stops people from consulting professionals.
False confidence drives communication issues
The research found that people often feel pressured to appear sexually experienced or satisfied, even when they are not. Nearly half of women and around a third of men admitted pretending to be satisfied. Over half of women said they had faked or lied about having an orgasm, while 1 in 5 men said the same. Additionally, 16% of men said they had hidden concerns about erectile dysfunction or arousal. One in five adults also said they had not been honest about their number of sexual partners.
Men and women face different insecurities
Shame and silence continue to prevent open conversations. More than one in three men have experienced erectile dysfunction, yet only 22% would seek medical advice. Just 8% would talk to a friend. Many men are insecure about stamina and penis size, with 26% worried about stamina and 21% about size. In fact, 36% of men avoided sex in the past year due to these concerns. Among women, 52% said weight was a major source of insecurity, 16% felt anxious about body hair, and 29% reported concerns about their sex drive.
Sexual health remains a taboo topic
Dr Crystal Wyllie of Asda Online Doctor said many people, especially men, avoid discussing sexual health. Embarrassment often drives them to look online or use AI tools for answers. But this is risky, as these platforms cannot replace a trained medical professional’s judgement or empathy.
The findings echo earlier research. A 2023 survey by Asda Online Doctor found that 60% of UK adults struggle to talk to doctors about health problems. More than a quarter said they found it difficult to discuss sexually transmitted infections. Data from the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles also revealed that many people, especially older adults, never received proper sexual health education, making them more vulnerable to infection and confusion.
