Women who are hugged regularly are more likely to be happy in a relationship.
Women who get lots of hugs are happier with their partners
Scientists say that females who receive more embraces, cuddles and touches are likely to be satisfied with their partner, according to a study of over 1,000 women between the ages of 18 and 72.
Hugs and even holding hands can do the trick for men looking to please, as physical contact enhances a woman's body satisfaction.
Boffins at Indiana University - writing in the Journal of Sex Research - said: "Ours is the first study to show that the physical nature of affectionate touch is a form of communication about one's body.
"Recipients see it as a message of positiveness about their body, in part because the affection was placed there."
The researchers added: "Our results offer possible avenues for bolstering an individual's sense of comfort with their body by encouraging gentle, voluntary (rather than requested) affirmative touch, such as holding hands or hugging, on a regular basis."