Did you cuddle and chat, or roll over straight to sleep?

It seems a couple's post-coital routine has a huge impact on their bond and connection, at least according to a new study by psychologists at the University of Michigan in the US.

More than 400 heterosexual people completed online surveys about their bedroom habits with their partner.

Lead author Dr Daniel Kruger said the research found that a person's desire for affection and communication was greatest when their other half fell asleep before them.

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Dr Kruger said this could be a biological response, because after the act of lovemaking reproduction could occur, creating a desire for reassurance and commitment.

"Although with contraception that may not be the case anymore, we still have this psychology, and the post-coital time is when the couple makes promises to each other and establish commitment," he said.

"The time couples spend together after sex might be as important as what happens before it in terms of building the relationship yet it has rarely been studied."

So, do tell: What's your post-sex routine? A special time with your partner, or is it lights out ASAP?

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