Survey: Romantic Hug and Kiss Beat Sex

Think that sex is the end-all and be-all of a relationship? You may be in the minority. Emotional closeness tops physical contact, according to a new survey, where six out of 10 people prefer a kiss and a cuddle to sex and say being hugged reduces stress and helps with relaxation.

Seventy-three percent of those surveyed also believe that touch is a natural instinct rather than a conscious decision.

The survey, by contraceptive makers Bayer Schering Pharma, revealed that companionship (38 percent) and commitment (40 percent) rated significantly higher in a relationship than sex (6 percent) and physical contact (9 percent).

However, where they like to be touched differed significantly between men and women.

According to the survey, almost a third of men liked to be touched on their genitals.

More than half of the women questioned preferred their neck and back.

Christine Webber, sex and relationships expert, said: "Our desire for physical contact can be reduced by a wide variety of factors and one that is often overlooked is that a woman may simply be using a contraceptive type or brand that is the wrong choice for her.

"Other factors include being too busy, tired and stressed.

"In 2010, very many women lead such hectic lives that they feel constantly exhausted. As a result, sex drifts down the list of priorities.