When you look at divorce statistics, a 2012 study found the most common reasons are growing apart (55 percent), communication problems (53 percent), and finances (40 percent). Infidelity or affairs are also a common cause.
Research doesn’t directly connect sexless marriages to divorce, but it can be a factor. It’s just never the only factor.
For some partners, sexual intimacy is an essential aspect that enriches their connection to one another and provides an outlet for a physical expression of affection or love.
If the frequency of sex has decreased to a point that divorce is on your mind, take a step back to consider whether you still feel comfort, trust, and love for your partner. Often, not having sex, or having less sex, is a symptom of something bigger.
If you and your partner have tried to work issues out and feel divorce is the right answer, that’s OK, too. Divorce isn’t a sign of failure. It may be painful and complicated, but it’s not for a lack of love. Divorce is the opportunity to reprioritize yourself and your happiness.
However, Dr. Becker-Warner reminds us that sex as intimacy doesn’t have to be true for everyone. “For others, sexual intimacy is either unimportant or has become a less important part of connection.”
And sex isn’t always necessary to have a healthy relationship.
“There are many people who are in healthy, happy, and vibrant relationships, and they are in what could be defined as low- or no-sex relationships,” Dr. Harris-Jackson says.
“It’s important to remember that sex and intimacy are not the same thing. Intimacy is the experience or act of loving, connecting, and sharing,” she continues. “Intimacy and good communication are key and critical for a healthy relationship. Sex is an important component for many partners, however, and that must be heard and respected for those individuals.”
Remember this: You and your partner get to decide if you fit in society’s definition of a sexless relationship or not — and whether it matters at all! Sexlessness doesn’t have to be a loss of intimacy.
As Dr. Harris-Jackson reiterates: “A sexless partnership does not mean it is an unhappy partnership. On the contrary! A partnership filled with intimacy and support can be very fulfilling if that is what the partners set as a priority in their relationship.”
SOURCE: HEALTHLINE
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