Spain’s New Sexual Reality: One in Four Adults is Abstinent

One in four Spaniards (24.6%) have not had sex in the past 12 months, according to a major study, "Sexuality: Habits and Opinions," released by Spain's Centre for Sociological Research (CIS). The survey, conducted between 5 and 12 March, involved 4,000 participants.

Respondents cited a range of reasons for this "dry spell," including a lack of interest, widowhood, health issues, age, negative past experiences, time constraints, and fear. The data shows that women are more likely to experience periods of sexual inactivity than men, and activity levels drop significantly with age, reaching 42% among those aged 65–74 and 71% for those over 75.

A vast majority of participants believe that romantic and sexual dynamics have transformed fundamentally over recent decades. Approximately 78.8% feel that relationships today are less stable than they were 50 years ago—a sentiment most strongly held by those with right-leaning political views. Furthermore, 73.3% state that modern intimacy has undergone a "profound transformation under the influence of social media and the internet."

On the flip side, many highlight the benefits of the modern era: 81.6% believe today’s relationships offer more personal freedom, 75.6% see them as more egalitarian, and 64.2% even find them more enjoyable.

In a surprising nod to the future, nearly one in five Spaniards would consider an intimate relationship with a humanoid robot, with 2% calling it "very likely." While this interest is most pronounced among the 18–24 age group, the 35–54 demographic overall provided the highest number of affirmative responses regarding AI companionship.

The study also delved into non-traditional practices: 12.9% of respondents have tried open relationships, 7.9% have engaged in BDSM (dominance or submission), and 6.8% have explored specific fetishes. Additionally, 5.2% reported trying polyamory, while 4.7% have participated in orgies or group sex.

Regarding their overall sexual identity, 44% of Spaniards describe themselves as conservative in their practices, while 26% say they are open to experimentation. Another 26.3% remain neutral.