The Science of the One-Night Stand

What’s really happening in our brains and bodies during a one-night stand? Why do some people swear by them while others wake up filled with regret? In this episode of the Shameless Care Podcast, Robert and Anna dive into the fascinating, messy, and very human science of casual sex — with plenty of humor, peer-reviewed research, and real talk along the way.

We start by looking at the numbers: just how common are one-night stands in the U.S. and around the world? Spoiler — they’re far more frequent than most people think. Then we explore the psychology: who is most likely to enjoy casual encounters, and who walks away feeling “the next-morning blues”? From evolutionary theory to modern hookup culture, we’ll break down why our brains sometimes chase sex without strings attached and sometimes punish us with guilt after the fact.

Of course, we don’t shy away from the sexual health realities. Oral sex during hookups often happens without protection, and studies show that’s where gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis frequently hide. We’ll explain why “I was tested last week” doesn’t always mean much if throat swabs or anal swabs weren’t included, and why a truly comprehensive STI panel matters more than ever for people in the lifestyle.

And finally, we’ll tackle the big question: are one-night stands good for you? The answer depends on your personality, your expectations, and your sexual health practices. For some, they’re fun, liberating, and even confidence-boosting. For others, they’re empty calories for the soul. The science says both can be true — and knowing your own wiring is the key to deciding what works for you.

So whether you’re a researcher or someone who just wants to understand why people chase (or avoid) casual sex, this episode will give you the data, the laughs, and maybe even a little self-reflection.

The Shameless Care Podcast is sex-positive healthcare meets real-world humor. No shame, no gimmicks — just science, stories, and a better way to talk about sex.