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continued:

Women's sexual health: Talking about your sexual needs

Topics to address with your partner

When you're talking to your partner about your sexual needs, try to be specific. Consider addressing these topics:

  • Time. Are you setting aside enough time for intimacy? If not, what can you do to change things?
  • Romance. Is it missing? How can you reignite it? How can romance set the stage for sexual intimacy?
  • Pleasure. What gives you individual and mutual enjoyment? Be open to hearing your partner's requests and negotiating differences if one of you is uncomfortable with the other's request.
  • Routine vs. rut. Has sex become too routine or predictable? What changes might you make? For instance, explore different times to have sex or try new techniques. Consider more cuddling, a sensual massage, masturbation, oral sex or the use of a vibrator — depending on what interests you.
  • Emotional intimacy. Sex is more than intercourse. Remind each other that it's also an opportunity for emotional connection, which builds closeness in a relationship.
  • Physical and emotional changes. Are physical changes, such as an illness, weight gain, changes after surgery or hormonal changes, affecting your sex life? Also address emotional factors that may be interfering with your ability to enjoy sexual activity, such as being under stress or feeling depressed.
  • Beliefs. Discuss your beliefs and expectations about sexuality. Consider whether misconceptions — such as the idea that women become less sexual after menopause — are affecting your sex life.

How to handle differing sexual needs

Sexual needs vary. Many factors can affect your sexual appetite, from stress, illness and aging to family, career and social commitments. Whatever the cause, differences in sexual desire between partners can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation or resentment. Talk to your partner about:

  • Your intimacy needs. If your emotional needs aren't being met, you may be less interested in sex. Think about what your partner could do to enhance your emotional intimacy — and talk about it openly and honestly.
  • Your differences in sexual desire. In any long-term relationship, couples may experience differing levels of sexual desire. Discuss your differences and try to explore options that will satisfy both of you.

When to talk with your doctor

If your difficulty persists, consider turning to a doctor or sex therapist for help. If you take medications and are concerned about your level of desire, review your medications with your doctor. If a particular medication is affecting your comfort with sex or desire for sex, your doctor may be able to suggest an alternative. Likewise, if a physical symptom — such as vaginal dryness — is interfering with your sexual enjoyment, ask about treatment options. For example, a lubricant or other medication can help with vaginal dryness associated with hormonal changes or other factors.

Likewise, if a physical symptom — such as vaginal dryness — is interfering with your sexual enjoyment, ask about treatment options. For example, a lubricant or other medication can help with vaginal dryness associated with hormonal changes or other factors.

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References
  1. Your sexual health. American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp072.cfm. Accessed Jan. 12, 2011.
  2. AAMFT consumer update: Female sexual problems. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. http://www.aamft.org/families/consumer_updates/femalesexualproblems.asp. Accessed Jan. 12, 2011.
  3. Swanson JB (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 25, 2011.
  4. Leiblum S, et al. Getting the Sex You Want: A Woman's Guide to Becoming Proud, Passionate and Pleased in Bed. New York, N.Y.: Crown Publishing Group; 2002.
  5. Love P, et al. Hot Monogamy: Essential Steps to More Passionate, Intimate Lovemaking. New York, N.Y.: Penguin Group; 1994.
MY00513 April 2, 2011

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