Read other Mating Game columns

February 9, 2009

THE MATING GAME

Preventing penile fractures and Peyronie's disease

From a purely biomechanical point of view, the design of the human penis has its pros and cons. Thanks to clever hydraulics and some very stretchy material, the organ is capable of eyebrow-raising changes in size and shape.

December 8, 2008

THE MATING GAME: HOLIDAY PARTY SPECIAL

Vying for a soul mate? Psych out the competition with science

Wondering what to wear at the holiday party to lure a new love for '09? That expensive, sequiny dress? A handsome new holly-green vest and some knock-'em-dead after-shave? Too bad fashion writers don't read science journals. Instead of just lecturing on clothing, perfume and makeup, they could draw on research from human mating for their tips on boosting one's attractiveness at holiday parties -- ones that don't involve buying a thing.

November 17, 2008

THE MATING GAME

Older adults' sexual desires don't have to fade

Far be it from us to pick nits with billionaire Warren Buffett in these bleak economic times, but perhaps he knows more about finance than he does about sex. "It's nice to have a lot of money, but you know, you don't want to keep it around forever," Buffett, worth $62 billion at age 78, told Bloomberg News recently. "Otherwise it's a little like saving sex for your old age."

September 15, 2008

THE MATING GAME

Love and infidelity: How our brains keep us from straying

In the pursuit of happily-ever-after, the odds seem to be stacked against us.

August 18, 2008

THE MATING GAME

Use it or lose it: Yes, it's true

Urology clinics have a saying: "Erections make erections."

June 16, 2008

THE MATING GAME

What does gay look like? Science keeps trying to figure that out

Last month, Sen. John McCain dropped by “Saturday Night Live,” drawing laughs from his promise, if elected president, to fight expensive federal projects -- such as, he spoofed, a Department of Defense device to "jam gaydar."

May 19, 2008

THE MATING GAME

Do I smell sexy? Here's a new reason to swap spit

Swapping spit: The term takes on a more refined meaning at the new dating site ScientificMatch.com. A prerequisite for signing up -- in addition to having a bit of cash to spare -- involves swishing a cotton swab inside your cheek and mailing a juicy sample of skin cells and saliva.

THE MATING GAME

Eager to connect with that elusive (some say mythical) 'erotogenic zone'? Years after the hype began, finding it remains easier said than done. But that's not stopping researchers from looking.

February 11, 2008

Science of the orgasm

AS they seek to document and demystify one of life's great thrills, scientists have run across some real head-scratchers.

February 11, 2008

Benefits 'O'-verall

Sure, orgasms can put a bounce in one's step, but some studies hint they might also be good for one's health.

February 11, 2008

Call him doctor 'Orgasmatron'

Dr. Stuart Meloy never set out to study orgasms. It was an accident.

February 11, 2008

Female orgasms and a 'rule of thumb'

During intercourse, the female orgasm can be elusive. What frustrated woman hasn't wondered: Am I simply, um, put together differently than other women?