The “female infidelity” gene refers to five genetic variants of the AVPR1A gene. The AVPR1A gene encodes the arginine vasopressin receptor 1A, which binds vasopressin and transmits the signal into the cells.

Vasopressin is a hormone or “chemical messenger” that promotes water retention in the kidneys and increases blood pressure. Most of these effects take place when vasopressin is released into the blood stream. However, when vasopressin is released directly into the brain, it can influence social and sexual behavior (such as infidelity).

In women with the “female infidelity” versions of AVPR1A, the transmission of the vasopressin signal is disrupted. As such, each variant is associated with an increased likelihood of extrapair mating or cheating in women.

There is no evidence that these five variants influence sexual behavior in men. However, there is a different AVPR1A variation (known as the RS3 334 allele), which is associated with an increased likelihood of infidelity in men. The RS3 334 allele is detected in the Male Pair-Bonding Gene AVPR1A Test.