Olfactory Function Relates to Sexual Experience in Adults

@article{Bendas2018OlfactoryFR,
  title={Olfactory Function Relates to Sexual Experience in Adults},
  author={Johanna Bendas and Thomas Hummel and Ilona Croy},
  journal={Archives of Sexual Behavior},
  year={2018},
  volume={47},
  pages={1333-1339}
}
The olfactory system contributes significantly to human social behavior and especially to mate choice and empathic functioning. In this context, previous research examining individuals with impaired olfactory function indicated an influence of the sense of smell on different aspects of sexuality. However, the applied samples, methods, and results are diverse and an involvement of confounding factors, such as breathing problems, depression or social insecurity cannot be ruled out. The present… 
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The exploratory analyses found that, in a large Italian sample, among those in a stable relationship, self-reported olfactory function predicted sexual well-being and negatively predicted infidelity when controlling for other relevant sociodemographics variables.
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The results suggested that deaf people rely less on visual and olfactory cues in mating and social assessments, highlighting a possible role of sign language in shaping interpersonal tactile experience in non-romantic relationships.
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Evidence is divided into several categories representing potential mechanisms by which olfactory impairment can impact close social relationships: bonding disruptions, decreased social support, missed group-eating experiences, hygiene concerns, and altered sexual behaviours.
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