Sydney, Sep 22 (IANS): Most Australian couples avoid sex unless they are on alcohol or drugs to get the kick, reveal experts.

According to sex therapist Jacqueline Hellyer, there has been a rise in the number of couples who have never had "sober" sex.

"It is not unusual for me to meet couples who only ever have sex in substance-induced states," she told news.com.au.

The substance-induced sex is not just limited to young adults.

"I also hear from housewives who need a couple of wines at dinner to get in the mood," Hellyer added.

Couples who begin a relationship drinking alcohol to become aroused are likely to continue that pattern in their relationship.

Many people find it difficult to move from substance-induced casual sex to a relationship.

A recent survey of young adults in Australia also found that 92 percent of people who had had casual sex in the past six months had used alcohol or drugs.

"Do not let social lubricants lead to sexual dysfunction," experts advise.