Scientists investigating human anatomy have gained unique insights from an unconventional experiment involving a couple’s intimate encounter in an MRI scanner. The study, which appeared in the British Medical Journal in 1999, aimed to explore physiological changes during sexual activity, yielding surprising findings about both male and female bodies.
The couple, identified as Ida Sabelis and her boyfriend Jupp, volunteered to participate in the research to provide a clear understanding of anatomical responses during intercourse. The study confirmed the feasibility of obtaining magnetic resonance images of genitalia during coitus, contributing significantly to the understanding of human anatomy.
One of the most unexpected outcomes was the observation that during sexual intercourse in the missionary position, the penis took on a shape resembling a boomerang, with approximately one-third of its length consisting of the root of the penis. Additionally, researchers noted that during female sexual arousal, the uterus lifted while the anterior vaginal wall lengthened, though the overall size of the uterus did not change.
Despite these valuable insights, researchers encountered an intriguing enigma. Throughout the study, which included eight couples and three single women, experts observed that the bladders of the participating women rapidly filled during all instances of sexual activity within the MRI machine.
According to expert Menko Victor ‘Pek’ van Andel, this phenomenon might be an evolutionary adaptation to encourage urination post-coitus, potentially serving as a preventative measure against urinary tract infections. Although the theory remains unconfirmed, van Andel stated that the scans consistently revealed a full bladder, even when participants had visited the restroom prior to the MRI.
Ida Sabelis described the experience as anything but romantic, emphasizing that the motivation behind their participation was to support women’s rights and expand the scientific understanding of female anatomy. She regarded the experiment as both an act of love and a performance, highlighting its significance in the realm of women’s health.
While this particular study successfully contributed to medical knowledge, not all experiences involving MRI scans and sexual activity have ended positively. In a separate incident, a young woman sustained severe injuries when a metal sex toy she mistakenly left inside herself was drawn into her body during an MRI scan. The 22-year-old believed the device was entirely made of silicon; however, its metal core reacted dangerously with the MRI machine. Reports indicate that the object was pulled through her rectum and into her chest cavity, resulting in major injuries, although she ultimately survived.
This incident has prompted warnings about the dangers of bringing metallic objects into MRI environments. Social media users have shared cautionary tales, with one post on X (formerly Twitter) warning, “Never wear a butt plug to your MRI appointment. My God.”
The exploration of human sexuality through scientific study continues to reveal complex and sometimes unexpected aspects of the human body. As researchers delve deeper, the intersection of science and personal experience may provide even more insights into human anatomy and health.
