What exactly is meant by a sexless partnership?
The best way to describe a sexless partnership is when couples are not engaging in sexual activity, or are having minimal sexual encounters. Studies have defined minimal sexual intimacy as ten or fewer intimate encounters over a period of one year. This is a professional definition used by experts in sex therapy, but not necessarily how society sees it. Most people in a so-called sexless relationship might better describe the issue as a conscious or subconscious avoidance of pleasure-based intimacy between partners. Some couples are just fine with little or no sex. However, if the frequency of sex is an issue in your relationship, know that there are solutions available.
Does it bother you or your partner?
If you're bothered by a lack of intimacy or sexual encounters, have an open discussion about the situation with your partner, without playing the blame game. Here are some things worth considering:
- Only the individuals in a relationship should decide whether they're actually in a sexless partnership. Don't rely on internet stories or the experiences of others to decide for you.
- Everyone is different — if you and your partner are satisfied with sex even once every three months, then there's no problem.
- However, if one of you is feeling frustrated that your sexual needs aren't being met, it may be a sign that your relationship is in trouble.
- If your last intimate encounter is only a distant memory for both of you, it may mean something needs to be done.
If any of these issues are causing you concern, and there's no sign of improvement, consider consulting a professional counsellor for advice on how to restore your relationship.
How to rebuild a sexless partnership
There are various reasons why someone may want to avoid sex altogether. In many instances it could be due to medical reasons, but quite often it may be due to psychological or unresolved emotional issues.
Some medical reasons you may not feel sexually interested in your partner:
- Hormonal issues like low testosterone, and menopausal symptoms such as low libido caused by low oestrogen levels.
- Antidepressant medication side effects, which are known to seriously affect sexual desire.
- Chronic fatigue and some chronic health conditions.
- Middle- or late-term pregnancy.
- Low libido issues.
Psychological reasons that may lead to avoiding sex:
- Resentment lurking in the subconscious over a partner's past infidelities, which can infiltrate the conscious mind and overwhelm any thoughts of a sexual encounter.
- Cultural or religious differences can also play a part in a sexless relationship. Many cultures hold beliefs that make it difficult for a woman to enjoy sex without subconscious guilt — feelings that can kill passionate emotions before they even begin.
In all of these cases, with good communication and some therapy, a couple with the will to do so can move past a sexless period, and restore both a healthy sex life and a loving relationship.
We can help
If you're not feeling all that good about yourself and your sexual performance, we can help! Herbal Remedies International has taken some of the finest herbal ingredients, backed by science, and developed potent formulas to enhance the sexual experience of both men and women, as well as combat low libido.
Our products do not need a doctor's script, and are quite safe to take.
To view our extensive range of products, visit us at www.herbalremedies.co.za and see how we can help you get your sex life back on track.
