Sexuality in Spain is undergoing a significant transformation, as revealed by the II National Survey on Sexual Health. This study, carried out by the Ministry of Health and the Center for Sociological Research (CIS) based on 9,009 interviews, updates the profile of the population's habits, experiences, and perceptions for the first time in 16 years. The results paint a complex picture: acceptance of sexual diversity is increasing, but challenges persist in key areas such as consent, infection prevention, and overall satisfaction.
A notable finding is that 28.2% of women have been forced to engage in unwanted sexual practices at some point, compared to 13.6% of men. Furthermore, a large majority, three out of four individuals, did not use a condom during their last vaginal penetrative sexual encounter. Additionally, 62.3% of respondents admit to never having undergone an HIV test.
“"Although we have a long way to go, we are truly privileged and have the opportunity to enjoy ourselves sexually how and with whom we want"
Despite these figures, psychologist and sexologist Nayara Malnero emphasizes that the reality has improved considerably. "Sexual freedoms have never been as great as they are today," she states, highlighting the capacity for enjoyment and personal and erotic growth.
The survey also shows a decrease in sexual satisfaction, with 77.2% of the population currently satisfied, down from 85.8% in 2009. Malnero interprets this reduction not as a worsening situation, but as a deeper understanding of what sexual satisfaction entails, now encompassing emotional well-being, connection, and happiness, beyond just the absence of problems or frequency of relations.
The specialist points out that the way people relate has changed, with an increase in interactions through apps and social media, which could influence the development of social skills.
Pornography consumption is another analyzed aspect: 71.9% of men and 24.9% of women have consumed such content in the past year, a figure exceeding 60% among young adults aged 25 to 34. Malnero warns that it can become problematic if it serves as the primary learning model, leading to frustration when comparing reality with unrealistic portrayals.
Stress and social pressure are identified as factors negatively impacting sexual satisfaction, as they are incompatible with the well-being necessary for a fulfilling intimate life.
The irregular use of condoms, particularly among young people, remains a pending challenge. Despite Spain being known for its high condom consumption, rates of unintended adolescent pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain elevated. Malnero attributes this to insufficient sex education in schools, often framed by fear rather than awareness and self-responsibility.
The expert stresses that sex education should extend beyond STI and pregnancy prevention to address self-care and affective relationships. She notes that a partner's refusal to use a condom signifies a lack of concern for one's health, and that the issue of STIs also affects individuals over 65.
Despite the challenges, the survey offers reasons for optimism. Social acceptance of same-sex relationships has more than doubled since 2009, reaching 88.1%. Furthermore, 91.1% support the implementation of sex education in schools.
Malnero concludes that while much work remains, the progress towards healthier relationships and greater self-awareness is in the right direction, driven by a growing desire to learn and improve.
