Forget dirty talk! Facial expressions are more effective to convey what you want during sex, scientists say

If the iconic scene from When Harry Met Sally is anything to go by, sexual encounters are characterized by intense moans and groans.

But nonverbal communication during sex is key to avoiding “disturbing intimacy,” according to a new study.

Researchers have found that most people believe that facial expressions and body language cues are the best way to enhance the experience.

A team, led by scientists at Missouri State University, interviewed 78 participants between the ages of 18 and 69 and included a mix of genders and sexual orientations.

Analysis of their responses revealed that effective communication during sexual activities was significantly influenced by the level of trust and comfort felt with the partner.

Communication, which most said improved the experience, was predominantly non-verbal.

And many participants said that body movements, facial expressions, and other physical responses were preferable, as they were less likely to disrupt the flow and intimacy of the encounter.

The researchers also found that participants, particularly women, often refrained from talking honestly about how satisfied they were to avoid hurting their male partner’s feelings.

The team wrote in the journal Archives of Sexual Behavior: “These findings have implications for sexual pleasure and how communication during sexual activity helps facilitate it.”

“The findings may help explain why long-term relationships are associated with more orgasms because partners enjoy more comfort with communication.”

They added: “Although participants reported a perception that communicating pleasure served as encouragement and affirmation for their partners, most preferred to communicate pleasure nonverbally.”

A previous study has indicated that the noise a woman may make in bed does not necessarily correspond to her orgasm.

The researchers asked the women to complete a questionnaire about their sexual behavior, which included details about how they climaxed and when they were most likely to express themselves vocally.

While most women surveyed said they reached orgasm during foreplay, most said they were more likely to express their enjoyment during their partner’s climax.

Researchers at the University of Central Lancashire said the reason for this discrepancy could be that women are “manipulating male behavior to their benefit.”