1. Couples orgasming simultaneously
The idea that orgasms happen at the exact same time, especially the first time a couple engages in the act, is one we are taught from the very first sex scene we see on film. But, in real life, this kind of timing doesn't exactly mean a couple is close or even deeply connected. It just means that everyone has a pretty great sense of control. In truth, especially in a first meeting, it's a rare occurrence.
2. Skirt up, ready to go
Yes, there may be possible foreplay and excitement, but the 8 Mile notion of sex anytime, anywhere, without any adjustments or maneuvering seems pretty darn tricky. We all know what a man needs to get ready to go — but women need a little TLC, too.
3. Sounds, sounds, sounds.
In movie sex, the only sounds are swelling strings and Counting Crows songs. Incorrect. Squishing, air coming out of unexpected places, creaking, and squeaking are a more typical soundtrack than "Adagio For Strings" playing in the background. Also, it is always the women, and only the women, who emit darling squeaks, little mews, and ladylike gasps.
4. Post-coital costuming
Who drags their entire sheet off of the bed to wear as an outfit? Who keeps a bathrobe next to their bed? Who, I beg you, who!?
5. Having sex in the shower is actually really hard
When I was 5, my brother-in-law told me a horrible story about how he was showering without a mat, and he slipped and cracked his head on the tub. This imagery has stayed with me for decades, and I am always reminded of it when a fictional couple gets freaky in the bathroom. Shower sex is very difficult, slippery, and those involved always end up with pruned skin. Related: standing-up sex. Unless you are an exact height or have some sort of helpful seat or prop, then you better have some serious upper-body strength.
6. Incident-free sex — outdoors
No bugs, grass stains, sticks on the ground, or sand in awkward places. We all believe the notion of doing it under the stars is truly romantic, and to be fair, it probably is pretty romantic for the mosquito couples enjoying an all-you-can-eat picnic.
7. Most movie sex looks like one big UTI
Obviously, no one wants to see their heartthrob du jour politely excuse themselves in the middle of a steamy, tension-filled scene for a bathroom break. But, anyone who has had a UTI knows that the post-coital bathroom break is law.
8. Little-to-no discussion of birth control or condoms (unless it is a major plot point)
Yes, films are great for a bit of escapism. But, we do wish that more sex scenes would include just a quick acknowledgement of the importance of birth control. Asking about a condom and pausing to put it on doesn't have to be mood killing, and it kind of stinks that movies perpetuate that idea by not including such a crucial discussion. Of course, condoms do make an appearance when it's supposed to be funny — or if it's going to break and, thus, kick the plot into motion (looking at you, Knocked Up).
9. When sex is meaningful, it is only missionary.
10. Sex is very, very slow.
Different, erm, strokes for different folks, but the idea that sex moves at a glacial pace — complete with gazes held and unblinking eye-contact maintained — from beginning to end just isn't accurate.