The year 2016 was a landmark one for research into sexuality, with a plethora of interesting and revealing studies coming out of various institutions around the world.

These studies tackled a wide range of topics, from the efficacy of different contraceptive methods to the impact of pornography on young people. Here, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most significant studies from the past year.

The Link Between Pornography and Sexual Behavior

One of the most widely-discussed studies of 2016 examined the relationship between pornography consumption and sexual behavior.

The study, published in the Journal of Sex Research, suggested that men who watched a lot of pornography were more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors such as unprotected sex or casual hookups. However, the study’s authors cautioned that the correlation between pornography and risky behavior was not necessarily a causal one, and more research is needed to fully understand the link between the two.

Contraceptive Choices Among Women

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology shed light on the contraceptive choices of women in the United States.

The study found that the long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods such as the intrauterine device (IUD) and hormonal implants were becoming increasingly popular among women, while the use of short-acting methods such as the pill and condoms was declining. The study’s authors noted that the availability of affordable and effective LARC methods was likely a major factor in this trend.

The Efficacy of Birth Control Pills

Another study conducted by the Women’s Health Initiative found that certain kinds of birth control pills may be less effective than others.

Specifically, the study found that older types of the pill that contain higher levels of estrogen were associated with a higher risk of blood clots than newer, lower-dose formulations. The study’s authors recommended that women who use birth control pills choose a low-dose option, and talk to their doctors about any potential risks.

The Effects of Sexual Objectification on Women

Researchers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln studied the effects of sexual objectification on women’s well-being and self-esteem.

The study found that women who were frequently subjected to sexual objectification – such as being catcalled on the street or stared at in public – reported lower levels of life satisfaction and increased feelings of anxiety and depression. The study’s authors called for greater cultural awareness of the harmful effects of sexual objectification, and suggested that interventions designed to promote respect and equality could help mitigate these effects.

Sexual Orientation and Smoking Habits

A study published in the Journal of Urban Health found that lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals are more likely to smoke cigarettes than their heterosexual counterparts.

The study’s authors suggested that this disparity could be due in part to the stress and discrimination that LGB people face in their daily lives, and called for more targeted tobacco prevention and cessation efforts for this population.

The Impact of Pregnancy on Women’s Sexuality

Researchers from the University of Michigan explored how pregnancy affects women’s sexuality and sexual functioning.

The study’s authors found that many women experience changes in their sexual desire, arousal, and orgasm during pregnancy, but that these changes tend to be temporary and do not necessarily indicate a long-term decrease in sexual functioning. The authors recommended that healthcare providers ask their pregnant patients about sexual functioning and provide resources and information to help them adjust to any changes they may experience.

Relationship Satisfaction and Sexual Frequency

A study published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior found that couples who engage in sexual activities more frequently tend to report higher levels of relationship satisfaction.

The study’s authors suggested that this correlation could be due in part to the release of bonding hormones such as oxytocin during sexual activity, which may contribute to feelings of closeness and intimacy between partners. The authors noted, however, that frequent sex is not necessarily the only or the most important factor in a satisfying relationship.

The Connection Between Alcohol and Sexual Assault

A study published in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence examined the link between alcohol consumption and sexual assault among college students.

The study found that both heavy drinking and being the victim of sexual assault were associated with increased risk of experiencing sexual coercion or assault in the future. The study’s authors recommended that interventions aimed at reducing the risk of sexual assault on college campuses should focus not only on reducing alcohol use, but also on changing cultural attitudes and promoting healthy relationships.

The Impact of “Sexual Orientation Change Efforts”

A study conducted by researchers at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration found that so-called “sexual orientation change efforts” – which include therapies and other interventions designed to change a person’s sexual orientation – may be harmful to individuals’ mental and emotional health. The study found that individuals who underwent these kinds of interventions reported higher levels of depression, anxiety, and suicidality than those who did not.

The study’s authors recommended that practitioners discontinue the use of these interventions and instead work towards creating safe and affirming environments for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Impact of Sexual Education Programming

A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health examined the effectiveness of a comprehensive sexual health education program in improving sexual health outcomes among high school students.

The study found that students who participated in the program were more likely to use condoms consistently and to delay sexual activity than those who did not. The study’s authors recommended that schools and other institutions continue to prioritize comprehensive sexual education in order to promote healthy sexual decisions and practices among young people.