You might think a sexless relationship is a myth, or something only seen in old sitcoms. However, the reality is that many couples choose to have little to no sex, for a variety of reasons. But can you really maintain a healthy, fulfilling partnership without physical intimacy? Let’s dive into the top 10 factors that can make or break a can you have a sexless relationship.

What is a Sexless Relationship, Anyway?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s define our terms. A sexless relationship is generally considered one where a couple has sex less than 10 times per year. This may sound like an oddly precise number, but research has shown this to be a common benchmark for when a relationship crosses over into “sexless” territory.

Is Sexless the Same as Celibate?

No, not quite. Celibacy is a choice to abstain from sexual activity, often for religious or spiritual reasons. A sexless relationship, on the other hand, may not be a conscious decision - it can happen gradually over time due to various factors we’ll explore. The partners may still desire intimacy, but something is preventing it from happening.

The Pros of a Sexless Relationship

Believe it or not, there are some potential upsides to having a can you have a sexless relationship. Let’s take a look at a few of the key advantages:

1. Less Pressure and Stress

When sex is no longer a requirement in the relationship, it can take a lot of the pressure and performance anxiety off the table. This allows you and your partner to focus on deeper emotional and intellectual connections.

2. More Time for Other Activities

Without the time and energy devoted to a physical relationship, you and your partner can pursue hobbies, quality time together, and other aspects of your lives that may have been neglected.

3. Reduced Risk of STIs

Obvously, if you’re not engaging in sexual activity, your risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection is dramatically reduced. This can provide peace of mind, especially for couples who have been burned in the past.

The Cons of a Sexless Relationship

Of course, a can you have a sexless relationship isn’t all sunshine and roses. There are some significant drawbacks to consider as well:

1. Emotional Disconnect

Physical intimacy is a crucial component of feeling close and bonded with your partner. Without it, you may start to feel emotionally distant and disconnected over time.

2. Resentment and Frustration

If one partner desires sex more than the other, the discrepancy can lead to resentment, frustration, and a widening gap between you.

3. Lack of Sexual Fulfillment

Perhaps most obviously, a sexless relationship means you and your partner are missing out on the physical pleasure, stress relief, and other benefits of a healthy sex life.

Reasons Why Couples Go Sexless

So what factors can contribute to a can you have a sexless relationship? Here are some of the most common culprits:

Medical Issues

Physical health problems like chronic pain, hormonal imbalances, or sexual dysfunctions can make sex difficult or uncomfortable, leading to a sexless dynamic.

Emotional/Mental Health Struggles

Things like depression, anxiety, trauma, or body image issues can significantly dampen one’s libido and interest in sex.

Busy Lifestyles

In our fast-paced, overscheduled world, many couples find that work, kids, and other obligations leave little time or energy for physical intimacy.

Can a Sexless Relationship Last?

The million-dollar question: is it possible to have a happy, fulfilling long-term partnership without sex? The answer is… it depends. Here are a few key factors that can determine the longevity of a can you have a sexless relationship:

Mutual Agreement and Acceptance

If both partners are truly content with the sexless dynamic, and have openly communicated and agreed to it, the relationship stands a better chance of surviving.

Emotional Intimacy

Couples who maintain a deep emotional connection, quality time together, and other forms of non-sexual intimacy are more likely to weather the storm of a sexless relationship.

Willingness to Compromise

Flexibility and a willingness to find compromises (such as occasional sex or non-penetrative intimacy) can help bridge the gap when libidos don’t align.

When to Seek Help for a Sexless Relationship

If you and your partner are struggling with a can you have a sexless relationship, don’t lose hope. There are resources and professionals who can help, such as:

• Sex Therapists: These specialists can guide you through the psychological, emotional, and physical aspects of your sexless dynamic.
• Couples Counseling: A therapist can facilitate open communication and help you work through the underlying issues.
• Medical Professionals: Doctors and endocrinologists can assess and treat any physical health conditions impacting your sex life.

The key is to address the problem head-on, with empathy, patience, and a willingness to explore solutions together.

Conclusion: Can You Have a Fulfilling Sexless Relationship?

In the end, the answer to the question “can you have a sexless relationship” is a resounding… maybe. It all comes down to the specific circumstances, the needs and desires of the individuals involved, and their ability to find fulfillment through other avenues of intimacy.

While a sexless dynamic may not be ideal for everyone, it can work for some couples - as long as both partners are on the same page, and willing to put in the work to maintain a strong emotional bond. With open communication, compromise, and a little outside help when needed, the can you have a sexless relationship can indeed be a viable, if unconventional, path to a lasting, fulfilling partnership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are 5 FAQs related to the topic of “can you have a sexless relationship”:

What is a sexless relationship?

A sexless relationship is generally defined as a romantic relationship where sexual activity occurs less than 10 times per year. This can be due to various factors, such as low libido, relationship issues, physical or mental health problems, or simply a mutual decision by the partners. In a sexless relationship, physical intimacy is limited, but the relationship may still be emotionally fulfilling and the couple may choose to remain together.

Is it normal to have a sexless relationship?

Yes, it is relatively common for couples to experience periods of sexual inactivity or a decrease in sexual frequency over time. Many factors can contribute to this, including stress, aging, changes in libido, and shifting priorities in the relationship. As long as both partners are content with the level of intimacy in the relationship, a sexless dynamic can be considered normal and acceptable.

Can a relationship survive without sex?

It is possible for a relationship to survive and even thrive without regular sexual activity, but this largely depends on the individual needs and expectations of the partners involved. Some couples may be able to maintain a strong emotional and romantic connection without physical intimacy, while others may find that a lack of sex leads to feelings of disconnection, resentment, or an unfulfilled need. Open communication, mutual understanding, and a willingness to explore alternative forms of intimacy can help couples navigate a sexless relationship.

How do you deal with a sexless relationship?

When facing a sexless relationship, it’s important for partners to have an open and honest dialogue about their needs, concerns, and expectations. Couples may benefit from seeking counseling or therapy to address underlying issues, improve communication, and explore ways to rebuild physical and emotional intimacy. It’s also crucial to maintain other forms of affection and connection, such as cuddling, massage, and quality time together. In some cases, couples may need to consider whether the relationship is sustainable in the long term if their sexual needs are not being met.

Can a sexless marriage last?

While a sexless marriage can last, it may require significant effort and compromise from both partners. Couples in a sexless marriage should strive to maintain emotional intimacy, open communication, and a willingness to explore alternative forms of physical closeness. Seeking professional help, such as couples therapy, can also be beneficial in working through the challenges and finding a path forward. Ultimately, the longevity of a sexless marriage will depend on the unique circumstances and the ability of the partners to adapt and find fulfillment in the relationship, regardless of the level of sexual activity.