In biology, the term sexual compatibility refers to whether or not two organisms can reproduce. This offers (in some ways) a simple definition as it can be easily tested. If two organisms can reproduce, they are sexually compatible. If they can’t, they aren’t.
There is no objective measure of sexual compatibility in humans. Instead of a score or ranking, it’s more accurate to talk about our perception of being compatible. To evaluate how sexually compatible someone feels, researchers will ask things like:
- How closely are your interests in specific sexual behaviors?
- How similar are your values or beliefs about sex?
- Do you feel like your partner understands you sexually?
Research suggests that the more compatible you think you are with your partner, the more sexually satisfied you will be. The trouble with this research is that while researchers are trying to distinguish them, it’s unclear if “sexual compatibility” is just another term for sexual satisfaction.
From a non-research perspective, sexual compatibility can be a useful way of talking about your sex life as it allows you to separate out different aspects of sexuality (activities, thoughts, feelings) to consider how each of them individually and together impact your sexual health and happiness.
Read more about sexual compatibility.
Sources:
Offman, A. & Matheson, K. “Sexual Compatibility and Sexual Functioning in Intimate Relationships” The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality Vol. 14, No. 1/2 (2005): 31-39.
Witting, K., Santtila, P., Varjonen, M., et. al. “Female Sexual Dysfunction, Sexual Distress, and Compatibility with Partner” Journal of Sexual Medicine Vol. 5, No. 11 (2008): 2587-2599.
