Have you ever wondered if the amount of sex you are having is appropriate? It is perfectly normal to have doubts about the extent of your sexual relationship with your partner. But it is important to keep in mind that every relationship is different, with different sexual needs.
Sex is not always a better relationship. Instead, focusing on the type of sex, your connection with your partner, and what's best for your relationship can strengthen your bond.
How often should a couple have sex?
There is no right answer for how often you should have sex - just what is best for your relationship or sex life.
A 2017 study published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior studied the sexual behavior of more than 26,000 people from 1989 to 2014. It revealed that the average adult has sex 54 times a year, an average of about once a week.
He also found that, for married couples, the number remained the same - 51 times per year. However, the frequency changes with age: 20-year-olds report having sex 80 times a year, while this number drops to 20 for 60-year-olds. It is also important to note that "Sex" is a broad term that includes many sexual acts. Therefore, the definition may vary from person to person.
Once a week may be average, but that doesn't mean it's the limit of sex for all relationships. Every couple decides how much sex is good for them - a number that can change as their relationship progresses.
Although there can be "too little" or "too much" sex, it is subjective and depends on the couple. Some people will still be satisfied even if they have not had sex for several months. Instead of looking for non-existent rules about how much you should have sex, he said to focus on your sex life and what it means to both of you.
Factors that can hinder a healthy sex life
However, if the amount of sex you are having with your partner is not satisfactory, some factors may be to blame. "Sex is a multidimensional experience. Good sex is mental, physical and emotional, "says Goerlich. Therefore, a person's emotions and health affect sex. Here are some examples of external factors affecting your or your partner's sex life:
- Anxiety - in general or about relationships
- Changes in the body due to aging and health problems
- Fall into a boring routine
- Be busy with children, family or work
- Do not feel comfortable talking to each other
- There is no feeling of seeing or hearing it from your partner
These different factors can also influence each other. For example, if your body changes for any reason, you may start to develop bad body shape. Feeling bad about your body can make you have sex with your partner.