If you’re ready to have sex now, that’s great! Just make sure you and your partner are on the same page. For example, if your partner is looking for a long-term relationship whereas you’d prefer to keep things casual, having sex may complicate things.
For example, a couple with premature emotional entanglement might adopt a pet together. Unfortunately, if the couple breaks up, dealing with their pet will be an additional complication.
Form(s) of birth control Past partners and STI history Using a condom (every time) Past (or current) drug use[3] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
Schedule a weekly date night. Explore each other’s fantasies. Wear something that makes you feel sexy.
Sex isn’t the only way to be physically intimate. Hugging, kissing, holding hands, and cuddling can trigger those warm and fuzzy neurotransmitters, too.
You can reap similar benefits in the short-term if you engage in casual sex, but the benefits probably won’t be as pronounced or long-lasting.
For example, for men, erections start becoming less firm and less frequent by the age of 50. [9] X Research source This is the result of normal aging. Certain medications, like antidepressants, can decrease libido and delay orgasms. Same for physical issues like increased weight, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.
Everyone is different when it comes to how often they want sex, and dealing with mismatched libidos is a common problem for couples. It’s important that both partners communicate their sexual needs openly and honestly. Then, you can work together to find a balance that you’re both happy with. If you and your partner can’t have sex anymore because of health reasons, you can absolutely still have satisfying and close relationship. Focus on creating intimacy through affection and loving communication. If you want to initiate sex or physical intimacy and your partner does not feel up to it, do not force them to do it. There is a correlation between physical intimacy and emotional intimacy. So try to enhance emotional intimacy with your partner. [11] X Research source For example, you should spend more time with your partner and get to know them. Stay tuned to your partner and engage them in emotional, thought-provoking discussions. [12] X Research source
As far as frequency goes, there’s no “right amount” of sex that you should be having. It’s entirely dependent on you and your partner’s needs. If both partners are fulfilled, then you’re having enough sex. If one person is unhappy, work on finding a compromise that you can both be satisfied with.
