Find out how more sex can make you happy and healthy

A new Sex Academy aims to get women talking about Britain's most taboo conversation topic.

Next month’s Academy aims to address qualms about sex  Photo: Getty Images

By Sarah Rainey

7:21PM GMT 17 Feb 2013

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More than half of British adults never talk about sex. In a recent survey, it was named the nation’s most taboo conversation topic – above death, money and divorce – with more women than men revealing they never discuss their bedroom behaviour with friends or colleagues. From preferences to positions, from our sexual experience to embarrassing problems, it’s a subject we’d rather avoid.

But a new venture aims to change this. Next month, the Vitality Show launches its first Sex Academy, designed to get women talking about what happens between the sheets. When the health and beauty event opens at Earls Court, organisers expect the Academy to be its most popular attraction.

“The idea is to empower women to feel comfortable with their sexuality and to enjoy a fulfilling love life,” says Leigh Fergus of Vos Media, the group behind the Vitality Show. “Our experts will talk about how women can enhance their sex lives, discuss problems they may have in their relationship and rid them of their preconceptions.”

Don’t be put off by the tawdry name – the sex academy is run by a line-up of respected relationship experts, sex coaches and lifestyle therapists. There will be free, walk-in presentations, Q&A sessions and workshops. The talks will take place in a small theatre, away from the crowds in the main exhibition hall, giving visitors the chance to ask questions in private.

The Vitality Show is an annual well-being, health and fitness extravaganza with over 350 exhibitors. This year’s attractions range from high-octane activities (a Body Bootcamp, Yoga Studio and Sports Arena) to relaxing experiences (a Day Spa, Beauty Bar and Chill Out Lounge). There’ll also be a Fear and Phobia Clinic and a Tantrum Club, where you can learn to control your temper.

The idea for the Sex Academy came from the all‑female team at Vos Media, who saw a niche for an informal clinic to address women’s qualms about sex. “With the recent uptake in erotic fiction, more people are willing to discuss their sexuality,” says Fergus
Uta Demontis, a sex and relationship coach who will host the Academy’s inaugural session, says women should talk honestly about sex. “Sex is one of our deepest, most personal concerns. People can feel really vulnerable, so it’s not always easy to share.”
The health benefits of a good sex life are another reason to visit. Regular sexual activity has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and increase aerobic fitness. Oxytocin, the hormone produced during sexual arousal, helps reduce anxiety and pain sensations, and, as a result, can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Men who ejaculate frequently have been shown to have a lower risk of prostate cancer, while women release the hormone prolactin during orgasm, which encourages a peaceful night’s sleep.
“If you’re not fulfilled sexually, it can affect both your mind and your body,” says Demontis, who has seven years’ experience as a sex specialist. “Pleasure sends feel-good chemicals coursing through our bodies – if we suppress sexual feelings or desires, this can have a negative impact on our general health.”