Millions of British women indulge in boozing before having sex because they lack confidence in their bodies, a study of 3,000 females has revealed.

Researchers examining the link between sexual habits and alcohol consumption found that half preferred sex after a tipple.

Women said alcohol helped them lose their inhibitions and become more adventurous between the sheets, reports The Daily Express.

Kathryn Lakeland of Femfresh, which carried out the study, said: "These results are a clear indication that British women today are severely lacking in confidence.

"Whilst many women claim they only drink before sex because it is part of the dating process, a large percentage will actually refuse to get between the sheets without a bit of Dutch courage.

"But in doing so many women will be losing self control and this is when drunken one-night stands are more likely to occur."