Southwesterners sex life ' status update': It's complicated

South west lovers are allowing technology to get in the way of their relationships and sex lives – a Durex survey reveals.

Durex is celebrating annual event, Earth Hour, by encouraging people to not only turn off all lights today but to also switch off their tech, and use the opportunity to reconnect with each other whilst the lights are off.

Earth Hour is an annual event organised by charity, WWF to encourage people around the world to turn off their lights for one hour to celebrate their commitment to the planet.

According to the recent Durex poll it seems a significant number of significant others in the South West are being sidelined in favour of technology.

Over 10 per cent of those from the South West admitted to answering their phone or reading a text message during sex. A shocking three per cent admitted that they had even checked Facebook whilst making love.

It also seems that our infatuation with the world of tech could be damaging our relationships in the real world. 20 per cent of South Westerners said that their partner had been distracted by some sort of tech device whilst they were getting intimate, 20 per cent believing that it gets in the way of their sex life and 32 per cent agreeing or strongly agreeing that it has a negative effect on their relationship. 55 per cent also admitted that they actually spend more time using technology while in bed with their partner than actually having sex.

Sex and Relationship expert, Susan Quilliam, said:

"Many people find love through dating websites or social media - but it's a worrying trend that many are also feeling gradually ousted in their relationships in favour of interaction online."

“There is, of course, a great place for technology in our lives but habitual use and reliance on our gadgets can lead to bad habits in relationships. Durex’s film is a great reminder that we need to take time out to get up close and intimate with our lovers, and reconnect with their needs face-to-face.”

Ukonwa Ojo, Global Marketing Manager said:

“Durex believes nothing should get in the way of great sex but our growing obsession with phones, laptops, TVs and Tablets isn’t bringing us closer together, it’s pushing us apart. So, this Earth Hour let’s log off and switch off; use it as an excuse to swap our laptops for some loving and ditch our phones to enjoy some foreplay. Let’s turn off to turn on!”

As a call to action, Durex has released a short film which follows the stories of several couples who, like most of us, have become seduced by the lure of a screen and encourages people to make the most of Earth Hour by reconnecting whilst the lights are off. It is available to view now. #turnofftoturnon

This film is a passionate plea; escape the screen and embrace the physical. This Earth Hour it’s time to reconnect with each other and turn off to turn on. The survey was carried out on 28 February 2014 by market researchers www.onepoll.com. Earth Hour is today between 8:30 – 9:30PM earthhour.org