Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty ImagesI’ve been reading some accounts of the “depravity” in the Olympic Village at past Olympics. This summer’s 2012 Olympics expect to be no different. With 15 condoms reportedly distributed to each Olympian, the Olympic Committee has made safer sex easier.

Some folks wonder why there is so much partying, with such dedicated top athletes in London for one specific reason – to fulfill a life-long dream. I suspect the partying and sex takes the “class” out of these world-class athletes, in the eyes of some. But I think the more accurate question is, why NOT so much partying and sex? And for exactly the reasons stated above.

In general, these are young, beautiful, incredibly fit athletes from around the world. They are exceptionally dedicated and hard working. I presume they are treated with the respect and awe they deserve. Once their event is over, they are on vacation in another country, the immense pressure is off, and they don’t need to be responsible any longer. They can put the weight of their countries down for a moment. And either they are elated because they have fulfilled their dreams, or they are reeling from disappointment because they have not.

This all sounds like the perfect recipe for a lot of celebration, connection, enjoyment, or escape. For most, this is a once in a lifetime experience. And especially for youth, drinking and sexing and feeling immortal are all a part of this wild and unforgettable experience. They may be role models, but fundamentally they are humans. And besides, who wouldn’t want to be able to say they slept with Michael Phelps?!

(This essay was originally written for Pacific San Diego Magazine's Love & Sex Blog.)

~Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus, San Diego, CA -- Sex Therapist, Sexologist, Sexuality Speaker