You know that feeling when you and your partner just don’t seem to be “clicking” in the bedroom anymore? The awkward silences, the avoidance of physical touch, the sad realization that it’s been weeks (or even months) since you’ve been intimate? Welcome to the world of the sexless relationship. But don’t worry, my friends, you’re not alone. In fact, up to 20% of couples report being in a sexless relationship at any given time.

1. The Platonic Pairing

Your relationship has morphed into more of a deep, platonic friendship than a passionate, romantic partnership. You love each other dearly, but the physical spark has fizzled out, leaving you feeling more like lifelong companions than lovers.

2. The Affectionate Roommates

You’re basically living together as glorified roommates who happen to share a bed (but not much else). The intimacy has dwindled, but you still enjoy each other’s company and may even be affectionate in non-sexual ways, like cuddling on the couch or giving each other back rubs.

3. The Chaste Companions

In your sexless relationship, you’ve taken a vow of sexual abstinence, whether for religious, personal, or other reasons. The lack of physical intimacy is a conscious choice, but it doesn’t make it any less challenging to navigate.

4. The Emotionally Estranged

You’ve grown apart emotionally, and the physical distance is a reflection of that. You may still care for each other, but the emotional connection has deteriorated, leaving you feeling more like strangers than life partners.

5. The Asexual Alliance

One or both of you identifies as asexual, meaning you experience little to no sexual attraction. In this case, the sexless relationship is a natural and fulfilling arrangement for you both.

6. The Medically Impaired

A health condition, medication, or other medical factor has interfered with your sexual function, leading to a sexless relationship that you’re both trying to navigate with compassion and understanding.

7. The Intimacy Avoidants

For whatever reason, one or both of you has a deep-seated fear of intimacy that manifests in a sexless relationship. You may crave physical closeness, but the vulnerability involved in sex is just too much to handle.

8. The Mutually Disinterested

You and your partner have simply lost interest in sex, whether due to stress, changing priorities, or a natural shift in your desires over time. The sexless relationship is a peaceful, if slightly lonely, arrangement.

9. The Temporarily Celibate

Your sexless relationship is a temporary state, perhaps due to a long-distance arrangement, a postpartum recovery period, or a mutual decision to take a sexual hiatus for a specific reason.

10. The Sexless Soulmates

You’ve chosen to maintain a sexless relationship because you’ve discovered that your deepest connection and fulfillment comes from your emotional, intellectual, and spiritual bond, rather than physical intimacy.

Regardless of the reason for your sexless relationship, the important thing is to communicate openly and honestly with your partner, explore alternative ways of being intimate, and seek professional help if needed. Remember, there is no “normal” when it comes to sex and relationships - the only thing that matters is that you and your partner are on the same page and finding ways to feel fulfilled and connected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are 5 FAQs related to the topic of “what a sexless relationship is called”:

What is a sexless relationship?

A sexless relationship is a romantic partnership where the couple engages in sexual activity less than 10 times per year. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as low libido, relationship problems, medical issues, or simple changes in life circumstances. In a sexless relationship, the lack of physical intimacy can lead to feelings of disconnection, resentment, and even the breakdown of the relationship over time if the issue is not addressed.

What are the causes of a sexless relationship?

There are several potential causes of a sexless relationship, including:

• Low sex drive or sexual desire in one or both partners
• Relationship problems, such as lack of communication, trust, or emotional intimacy
• Medical issues, such as hormonal imbalances, chronic pain, or sexual dysfunction
• Stress, fatigue, or mental health concerns
• Significant life changes, such as the birth of a child or job-related stressors
• Differing sexual needs or preferences between partners

How common are sexless relationships?

Sexless relationships are more common than many people realize. Estimates suggest that around 15-20% of couples experience a sexless relationship at some point. The prevalence tends to increase with the length of the relationship, with longer-term couples more likely to report low or absent sexual activity.

What are the effects of a sexless relationship?

A sexless relationship can have a range of negative effects, both on the individuals and the relationship as a whole. Potential consequences include:

• Feelings of disconnection, loneliness, and resentment between partners
• Decreased emotional and physical intimacy
• Loss of self-esteem and confidence
• Increased risk of infidelity or the breakdown of the relationship
• Stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues

How can a sexless relationship be addressed?

Addressing a sexless relationship requires open and honest communication between partners, as well as a willingness to work on the issue together. Potential solutions may include:

• Seeking counseling or therapy to improve communication and address underlying issues
• Experimenting with new sexual activities or techniques to reignite the spark
• Making lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress or improving physical and mental health
• Considering compromise solutions, such as agreeing to an open relationship or exploring non-sexual forms of intimacy
• Seeking medical attention for any underlying physical or hormonal causes