Talking About Sex When Youre Married

Talking About Sex When You're Married Relationships Spouses & Partners Marital Problems Print Talking About Sex When Youre Married By Sheri Stritof Sheri Stritof has written about marriage and relationships for 20 years. Shes the co-author of The Everything Great Marriage Book. Learn about our editorial policy Sheri Stritof Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Carly Snyder, MD on January 26, 2020 facebook twitter linkedin Carly Snyder, MD is a reproductive and perinatal psychiatrist who combines traditional psychiatry with integrative medicine-based treatments.   Learn about our Medical Review Board Carly Snyder, MD on January 26, 2020 SolStock/E/Getty Images More in Relationships Spouses & Partners Marital Problems LGBTQ Violence and Abuse Although many experts believe that a majority of marriages today are in distress because of financial reasons, problems with sex and sexuality rank high, too. In fact, the topic of sex is the number one problem discussed in online relationship forums. It seems easier to talk to a stranger online than to your own partner. These conversations can bring up a log of anxiety in you and cause you to avoid having them altogether. Know that there are some strategies to make these talks easier and you are likely to find it worth the effort.   Being able to talk about sex with your partner is important for sexual satisfaction. Research has found that couples who have strong  sexual communication are actually more satisfied with their sex lives.?? When Is the Right Time to Talk About Sex Problems? Do not talk about sexual problems in your bedroom or at bedtime. Pick a more neutral location. Make sure the kids are not in earshot!Do not talk about sex right after having sex. Again, pick a more neutral time as well.  Do not blindside your spouse. If you want to talk about sexual problems, let your spouse know (without placing blame) that you think the two of you need to have a talk about your sexual intimacy. Set up a time to have the talk. How to Talk About Sex Problems There are some steps you can take to help make conversations about sex easier for both of you: Start Slow Have a soft start to the conversation. Begin with your goal to feel closer and connected with your spouse. Avoid blaming.  Skip criticisms and focus on things you can both do to make your sex life more fulfilling. Focus on Intimacy Remember that affection and intimacy are just as important as the frequency of sex.?? There are ways to build intimacy and feel more connected beyond intercourse, so be sure to talk about your needs for other types of affection as well. Skip the Surprises If you do not want to create more problems in your  sex life, dont purchase any  sex advice books  or sex toys  without discussing the issue with your spouse first. It is important that you are both on the same page, so you should always initiate those conversations first before springing any surprises on your partner. Talk about what you both might enjoy and fantasies you might have. If you do decide to introduce some of these into your relationship, research your options together. Express Yourself Talk with one another about your expectations, your fears, your desires, your concerns, and be honest. It is critical to talk about your innermost  feelings  about this.   Do not be afraid to talk about what you like sexually and what you dont like. Your comfort level is quite important to satisfying sex life.   Talk Often Realize that you may have to have a few conversations and not just one long conversation.  This is not a one-time conversation but should be an ongoing discussion and a normal part of your relationship. Research has found that talking to your partner about sex is linked to greater relationship satisfaction.?? Understand Your Style Explore with one another your sexual styles. All couples have these styles or moods at some point in time during their married lives: Spiritual:  This is a union of mind,  body, and soul that reflects your deep appreciation of being with one another. It can be created by noticing the small moments in your lives.Funny:  This style is when you can laugh and tease one another in bed. It is about having fun together. There  is  a light and playful undertone.  Angry:  This is making love even when youre ticked off at each other. This style can be healing. However, be sure that your problems are eventually talked about and resolved.Lusty:  This style is wicked and flirty. You may be giving each other seductive looks  or doing a quickie.  This is also about the joy of having sex just for the sake of sex.Tender:  This style is the gentle, romantic, healing sex that involves massages, light touches, and ministering to one another. You both are into the sensations of sex and focus on giving each other pleasure.  Fantasy:  The fantasy style is a collaboration between the two of you to be daring and to experiment a bit. Be car eful about sharing your personal  sexual fantasies  with one another. If you do decide to share your fantasies with your spouse, the two of you need to set guidelines and honor each others limits. It has been said that Good lovers are made, not born. If you truly want your sexual relationship to be all that it can be, you should take the time to talk with one another.   Communication  is an important part of great sex.?? This conversation is necessary for all couplesâ€"whether you are  newlyweds  or older, long-married couples.  Having a healthy sex life is a great gift and a gift to be enjoyed and nurtured. It is what makes a marriage specialâ€"more than just a platonic relationship.   Why You Shouldnt Worry About Masturbation in Your Relationship