A new study conducted on 792 young adults in the Lucas County, Ohio area found that sex between ex boyfriends and girlfriends is quite common in young adults.

The study was a longitudinal survey (meaning scientists followed them through time) and was conducted over a 2 year period. All parties involved were in a relationship over the stated time. The study found that 44% of people followed broke up with their partner and got back together. Of those, 53% said sex was part of the reconciliation.

The study, published in the Journal of Adolescent Research November 2012 went to state:

“Having sex with an ex could put people in a position of technically being broken up, but still emotionally connected. Those who stay in contact following a breakup continue to feel the pain of the breakup more intensely and may have more difficulty moving on. Previous research found that college students who had sex with their exes mostly described this as a ‘difficult or negative event.’”

Safe sex may also play a role in why people tend to hook back up with ex’s. Previous studies have shown as couples get deeper in the relationship, safe sex tactics tend to drop. This is due to trust and securities developed with the partner. The appeal of sex without any protection or risk may be the cause of so many young adults throwing away their inhibitions for short term pleasures.