

{"id":55041,"date":"2020-09-16T09:46:06","date_gmt":"2020-09-16T09:46:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/?p=55041"},"modified":"2025-12-21T09:13:23","modified_gmt":"2025-12-21T09:13:23","slug":"reasons-for-sexless-marriage","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/physical-intimacy\/reasons-for-sexless-marriage\/","title":{"rendered":"15 Common Reasons for a Sexless Marriage &#038; Ways to Deal With It"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-112297\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Busy-Work-Lives.png\" alt=\"Busy Work Lives\" width=\"804\" height=\"536\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When passion cools, or intimacy feels out of reach, it can be confusing&hellip; even a little lonely.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some couples quietly wonder, &ldquo;Is it just us?&rdquo; while others wrestle with the silence in their own ways.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The truth is, a sexless marriage isn&rsquo;t always about love fading away; it can be tied to stress, health, misunderstandings, or just the messy rhythm of daily life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What starts as &ldquo;we&rsquo;ll get back to it soon&rdquo; can stretch into months, and before you know it, the distance feels heavier than expected. It doesn&rsquo;t mean hope is gone, but it does mean paying attention to yourself, your partner, and the reasons hiding beneath the surface.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-is-a-sexless-marriage\"><\/span><b>What is a sexless marriage?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>A sexless marriage isn&rsquo;t just about numbers, though people often define it as having little to no sexual intimacy&mdash;sometimes less than ten times a year.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But what does that really mean for two people sharing a life?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For some, it feels like missing closeness; for others, it&rsquo;s about longing for a connection beyond the physical.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The sexless marriage definition captures the absence of intimacy, yet the impact reaches into emotions, self-esteem, and the way partners relate&hellip; leaving both wondering what changed and how to find their way back.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Is sexless marriage a problem?<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sexless marriages can be problematic. However, it depends on what<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/intimacy\/physical-relationship-or-emotional-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">kind of emotional relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you have if we look into the sexless marriage statistics.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p>According to a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.statista.com\/statistics\/1367096\/us-sexless-marriage-by-generation\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Statista report<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, there is a striking generational gap: about 33.1% of married Baby Boomers said they were in sexless marriages, while only 2.3% of married Gen Z couples reported the same.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A sexless marriage can ruin your relationship if you start feeling isolated. Falling apart can make you crave affection and emotional intimacy, which might be demanding as you<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/emotional-intimacy\/what-to-do-when-youre-feeling-no-emotional-connection-with-your-husband\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">don&rsquo;t feel connected<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to your partner.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LCSW<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/experts\/danica\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Danica Mitchell<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> says,<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For many couples, a sexless marriage is a problem, but some couples are fine without sex, and it is something each couple needs to determine for themselves.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED QUIZ : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/are-you-in-a-sexless-marriage\" title=\" Are You in a Sexless Marriage Quiz?\"> Are You in a Sexless Marriage Quiz?<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15-common-reasons-for-a-sexless-marriage-ways-to-deal-with-it\"><\/span><b>15 common reasons for a sexless marriage &amp; ways to deal with it<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every couple&rsquo;s story is different, yet there are common threads that explain why intimacy fades. Sometimes it&rsquo;s stress or exhaustion, other times it&rsquo;s unspoken feelings, health concerns, or shifting priorities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding these reasons doesn&rsquo;t place blame&mdash;it simply helps shine a light on what might be happening behind the silence, and gently points toward how to deal with a sexless marriage.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Different or low sex drives<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is rare for partners&rsquo; sex drives to be a perfect match. If both spouses experience a loss of libido or don&rsquo;t value sex as much as their friendship,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/emotional-safety\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">feeling of emotional security<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and other aspects of their marriage, it can still work out, no matter how sexually active they are.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yet, for couples whose sexual drives are mismatched, finding a fine line between<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/physical-intimacy\/make-your-partner-sexually-satisfied\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">satisfying each other&rsquo;s needs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and not pushing them to be physically intimate when they do not want to may be problematic.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nevertheless, it does not necessarily mean that couples facing sex issues have reached the point of no return.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Truth be told, if they are willing to save their relationship, it is crucial to be open to having tough conversations and consulting a sexologist or a therapist.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Talk openly about your needs without judgment or blame.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore non-sexual intimacy (like cuddling, massage, or shared activities) to stay close.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider seeking guidance from a therapist to find a healthy middle ground.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED QUIZ : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/is-my-sex-drive-low-quiz\" title=\" Do I Have A Low Sex Drive Quiz?\"> Do I Have A Low Sex Drive Quiz?<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>2. Childbirth&nbsp;<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-112296\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Parenting-Stress.png\" alt=\"Parenting Stress\" width=\"804\" height=\"536\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After giving birth, doctors often suggest waiting at least a month or two before resuming intercourse to allow the body time to heal. Beyond the medical side, caring for a newborn can be overwhelming&mdash;sleepless nights, constant responsibilities, and shifting routines leave little space for intimacy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/305442568_Factors_affecting_sexual_activity_of_women_after_childbirth\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A study<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Polish women in the first year after childbirth found that sexual activity is influenced by pain during intercourse, breast tenderness, fatigue, and pregnancy fears. While most reported intercourse a few times monthly, activity increased in the second half of the postpartum period.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Add to that the physical changes, fatigue, and fluctuating hormones, and it&rsquo;s no surprise that a woman&rsquo;s sex drive may feel very different. Emotional adjustments, learning new roles as parents, and even anxiety about intimacy after birth can all play a part in creating distance during this tender phase.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be patient with yourself and your partner&mdash;healing and adjustment take time.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create small moments of closeness that aren&rsquo;t sexual, like holding hands or short walks together.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Talk openly about how you&rsquo;re both feeling, and seek medical or emotional support if needed.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>3. Menopause<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Menopause is also one of the prime causes of sexless marriages as it influences hormonal levels, so there is a strong correlation between them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During such periods, it is crucial to remember that while sex may be barely on the table, it does not mean that partners should give up on<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/affection-in-a-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">showing each other affection<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in other ways to make sure they both feel wanted and valued.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore non-sexual intimacy to keep emotional connection alive.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Speak with a doctor about options that can ease menopause-related symptoms.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice patience and reassurance so both partners feel supported.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>4. Communication problems<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/3-reasons-why-a-lack-of-communication-in-marriage-can-be-detrimental\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">communication gap<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is one of the biggest reasons for sexless marriages. These are not<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/discover-your-conflict-management-style-in-a-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">necessarily fights or conflicts<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Everything might be as simple (and at the same time as hard) as a failure to voice one&rsquo;s sexual desires.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>When one or both spouses are no longer satisfied with the process and need a change, it is paramount to ensure the other half knows about it.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Moreover, suppose you had negative experiences,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/domestic-violence-and-abuse\/sexual-abuse-in-marriage-is-there-such-a-thing\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">such as sexual abuse<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. In that case, the partner must understand how difficult it was to go through and how<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/physical-intimacy\/stages-of-physical-intimacy-in-a-new-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">to approach physical intimacy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, without traumatizing the affected person.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create a safe, calm space for honest talks about intimacy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use &ldquo;I feel&rdquo; statements instead of blame to express needs.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If struggles run deep, consider couples therapy for guided communication.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED QUIZ : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/what-is-your-communication-style\" title=\"What Is Your Communication Style in Relationships Quiz\">What Is Your Communication Style in Relationships Quiz<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>5. Health issues<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health challenges can quietly affect intimacy, sometimes leading couples into a sexless marriage. One common concern is<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/physical-intimacy\/erectile-dysfunction-is-a-couple-issue\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">erectile difficulties<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which may leave men feeling anxious or unsure of themselves, impacting both confidence and desire.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The causes can vary&mdash;heart conditions, stress, mental health struggles, or even side effects of certain medications. Women, too, may face health-related issues such as hormonal imbalances, chronic pain, or post-surgery recovery that reduce sexual interest.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These challenges don&rsquo;t reflect a lack of love; they simply show how deeply physical and emotional well-being are connected to intimacy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Encourage each other to seek medical help without shame.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on emotional closeness when physical intimacy feels hard.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be patient and supportive while navigating health challenges together.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>6. Depression\/Anxiety<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another cause of a sexless marriage is depression or anxiety. <\/span><b>When a person loses interest in life and feels hopeless or restless, it takes a toll on their relationships.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> When you or your partner experiences a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/331786502_SEXUAL_PROBLEMS_IN_WOMEN_WITH_MAJOR_DEPRESSION_OR_ANXIETY_DISORDER\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mental health issue<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, it is necessary to seek medical attention.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this case, no sex in a marriage should be the least of your concerns, as, without professional help, these conditions might lead to devastating consequences.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Encourage professional help, such as therapy or counseling.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Offer consistent emotional support without pressuring your partner for intimacy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on small, positive activities together to rebuild connection.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED QUIZ : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/am-i-depressed-because-of-my-relationship-quiz\" title=\"Is My Relationship Making Me Depressed Quiz\">Is My Relationship Making Me Depressed Quiz<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>7. Side effects of medication<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It often comes as a surprise that certain prescribed drugs can lower sexual desire or make intimacy feel more difficult. <\/span><b>If you notice changes in your sex drive after starting medication, and it feels concerning, it may be worth talking with your doctor.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Danica Mitchell further adds,<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is an unfortunate reality, but many providers do not warn about sexual side effects before prescribing a medication. If you think you are experiencing sexual side effects, you should speak to your healthcare provider.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They can help confirm whether the medication is the cause and, if needed, discuss possible adjustments or alternatives that support both your health and well-being.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Track any changes in sex drive after starting or changing medication.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consult your doctor and ask directly about possible alternatives.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&rsquo;t self-adjust medication&mdash;professional guidance is safest.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>8. Lack of foreplay<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many partners move too quickly into sex without much, or any, foreplay. This is one of the leading reasons why the other partner loses interest.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Women, especially, may need more time to feel aroused, and this is where<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/physical-intimacy\/foreplay-ideas-spice-up-your-life\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">foreplay becomes essential<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taking things slowly, being creative, and investing enough time in warm-up activities can turn intimacy into something more enjoyable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore different forms of foreplay such as touch, kissing, or playful teasing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communicate openly about what feels good and what doesn&rsquo;t.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treat intimacy as quality time, not a rushed activity.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>9. Unhealthy sexual behaviors<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anyone can develop patterns around sex that feel confusing, uncomfortable, or disruptive to their partner. <\/span><b>While personal preferences are valid, certain behaviors may come across as hurtful or difficult to accept, creating distance in the relationship.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you or your partner feels unsure about how to handle such situations, reaching out to a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/physical-intimacy\/right-time-to-visit-a-sexologist\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sexologist<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or therapist can offer support and healthier ways forward.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Share your boundaries clearly and respectfully.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Listen without judgment to your partner&rsquo;s preferences.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seek professional guidance if behaviors feel harmful or hard to manage alone.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/intimacy\/healthy-sexual-relationship\/\" title=\"10 Characteristics of a Healthy Sexual Relationship\">10 Characteristics of a Healthy Sexual Relationship<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>10. Poor hygiene<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Personal hygiene plays an important role in intimacy, and when it&rsquo;s overlooked, it can create both physical and emotional barriers between partners. <\/span><b>Good hygiene not only reduces the risk of infections but also helps maintain comfort and confidence during closeness.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Simple practices&mdash;like keeping private areas clean, wearing fresh undergarments, and avoiding oral sex if there are any sores&mdash;can make a real difference. If either partner is dealing with an infection or related concern, consulting a healthcare professional can bring reassurance and help restore intimacy with greater confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep up with regular bathing and grooming habits.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wear clean, comfortable clothing and undergarments.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support your partner gently if they&rsquo;re dealing with an infection or health issue.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED QUIZ : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/does-he-like-me-or-just-wants-sex-quiz\" title=\"Does He Like Me or Just Wants Sex Quiz\">Does He Like Me or Just Wants Sex Quiz<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>11. Body changes<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Changes in the body&mdash;whether weight gain, health issues, or simply the natural effects of aging&mdash;can sometimes lead to insecurity. When one or both partners feel less confident, they may start avoiding intimacy, and over time, this pattern can quietly become routine.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>What begins as a temporary hesitation might grow into a lasting distance, leaving both partners wondering what shifted.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It&rsquo;s important to remember that attraction is about more than appearance; emotional connection and reassurance often matter just as much.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gentle encouragement, patience, and open communication can help rebuild confidence and closeness.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Offer genuine compliments and reminders of attraction to build confidence.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on emotional closeness through shared activities and quality time.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If body image struggles run deep, explore therapy or support groups together.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>12. A shift in mental state<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-112295\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Unresolved-Conflict.png\" alt=\"Unresolved Conflict\" width=\"804\" height=\"536\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High levels of stress can easily affect intimacy, sometimes leaving you too drained or distracted to think about sex. <\/span><b>When life brings big changes&mdash;work pressure, financial worries, or family responsibilities&mdash;it&rsquo;s natural for your mind to focus elsewhere.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In these moments, sex may feel less enjoyable, or even like another task on the list. Over time, mental strain can create emotional distance as well, making it harder to relax and connect.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice stress-relief habits like exercise, meditation, or journaling.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create &ldquo;no-stress&rdquo; moments with your partner, even if just 15 minutes daily.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Share openly about what&rsquo;s on your mind instead of carrying the weight alone.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED QUIZ : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/am-i-emotionally-damaged-quiz\" title=\"Am I Emotionally Damaged Quiz\">Am I Emotionally Damaged Quiz<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>13. Unresolved conflicts<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/elements-of-conflict\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conflicts are a part<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of the relationship, but they can slowly weaken your connection if left unresolved. Unresolved issues often make you feel lonely, even while being together.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Sometimes a partner loses focus, and instead of nurturing the bond, they allow disagreements to seep into their sex life, leaving it distant and dry.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Over time, this can build walls of resentment that are hard to break down.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Honest conversations and gentle compromise become essential to prevent small arguments from turning into lasting barriers to intimacy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Address issues calmly instead of letting them pile up.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on finding solutions, not just proving who&rsquo;s right or wrong.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If patterns repeat, try couples counseling to break the cycle.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>14. Wrong reasons to live together<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While divorce does affect kids, having unhappy parents may do even more damage. <\/span><b>If you have nothing in common but the children and &ldquo;date nights&rdquo; or &ldquo;together alone,&rdquo; time does not change that.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It is not a good sign.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, constant compromise without genuine joy makes you question whether the relationship is built on love or something else entirely.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reflect honestly on what&rsquo;s keeping you in the relationship.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Invest in activities that bring joy beyond shared responsibilities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider professional help to evaluate whether rebuilding is possible.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>15. Not caring enough<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, people grow apart, and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/physical-intimacy\/how-a-lack-of-physical-intimacy-can-hurt-your-marriage\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">having no physical intimacy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> might be one of the signs. If it is not hard for you to see yourself waking up alone or with another person, you might already be over your partner.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/physical-intimacy\/how-to-fix-sexual-problems-in-a-marriage\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When facing sexual problems<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, there is nothing worse than paying no heed to the issues or feeling ashamed of discussing them. <\/span><b>Both partners should be open to dialogue to address the problems before they lead to mutual hostility and divorce, to save a marriage.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Danica Mitchell comments,<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many couples are able to reignite their passion for one another, but other couples realize a sexless marriage is a symptom of larger problems.<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most underrated reasons for a sexless marriage is losing a sense of responsibility and care toward your partner.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Here is what you can do:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make small daily efforts to show appreciation and care.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Revisit shared goals and dreams to strengthen the bond.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the relationship feels neglected, start with honest conversations about what each of you truly wants.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watch this video in which Michelle Farris, a licensed psychotherapist, shares 7 secrets to help you show that you care in a relationship:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/wYb-bwi8g-Q?si=JV70JNx3RQBft0A5\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">&#65279;<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5-potential-effects-of-a-sexless-marriage\"><\/span><b>5 potential effects of a sexless marriage<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have found yourself coping with a sexless marriage, it does not mean that you or your spouse should necessarily separate or that any of you want it at all.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, sexless marriages can leave a dent in your relationship. Here are some effects of a sexless marriage that you shouldn&rsquo;t ignore:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Feeling negative and lonely all the time<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experiencing emotions<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/resentment-the-silent-killer-of-your-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">such as resentment<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, frustration, and guilt<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoiding sex as the pressure becomes too much to handle&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Being less involved in your partner&rsquo;s life and decisions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sexless marriage can be a massive problem for people who lack patience<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you believe that there are problems with physical intimacy in your relationships, having an honest conversation about it is the first step. It is crucial to voice your wants and needs without criticizing your significant other.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to talking about sex, many people feel vulnerable, and sometimes even small slips in wording can hurt feelings. In some conversations, the thought of separation might come up, so it&rsquo;s important to listen to yourself and your partner to understand what each of you truly wants.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If at least one of the spouses<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/when-to-leave-a-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">wants out of the relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and has already made up their mind, the other person needs to think about whether trying to &ldquo;make it work&rdquo; is worth their time and energy.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span>FAQs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"266\" data-end=\"465\">A sexless marriage can bring up confusion, self-doubt, and many unanswered questions. These common concerns help clarify what it means, why it happens, and what options couples have moving forward.<\/p>\n<ul><li data-start=\"472\" data-end=\"521\">\n<h3><strong data-start=\"476\" data-end=\"521\">What is considered a sexless marriage?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul><p data-start=\"523\" data-end=\"874\">A sexless marriage is commonly defined as a relationship where partners have little to no sexual intimacy&mdash;often fewer than 10 times a year. However, it&rsquo;s not just about frequency; it&rsquo;s about whether both partners feel emotionally and physically fulfilled. A marriage may feel sexless even with occasional intimacy if connection or desire feels absent.<\/p>\n<ul><li data-start=\"881\" data-end=\"927\">\n<h3><strong data-start=\"885\" data-end=\"927\">Can a marriage survive without sex?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul><p data-start=\"929\" data-end=\"1252\">Yes, a marriage can survive without sex if both partners genuinely feel satisfied and emotionally connected. For some couples, intimacy takes non-physical forms like affection, companionship, or shared values. Problems usually arise when one partner feels unfulfilled or disconnected, making honest communication essential.<\/p>\n<ul><li data-start=\"1259\" data-end=\"1317\">\n<h3><strong data-start=\"1263\" data-end=\"1317\">What are the main causes of a sexless marriage?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul><p data-start=\"1319\" data-end=\"1687\">Sexless marriages often result from stress, health issues, mental health concerns, hormonal changes, poor communication, unresolved conflicts, or mismatched sex drives. Life transitions like childbirth, menopause, or demanding work schedules can also reduce intimacy. In most cases, it&rsquo;s a combination of emotional, physical, and relational factors&mdash;not a lack of love.<\/p>\n<ul><li data-start=\"1694\" data-end=\"1737\">\n<h3><strong data-start=\"1698\" data-end=\"1737\">Can a sexless marriage be fixed?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul><p data-start=\"1739\" data-end=\"2108\">Many sexless marriages can be improved with open communication, patience, and mutual effort. Addressing underlying causes&mdash;such as stress, health concerns, or emotional distance&mdash;and seeking professional support like couples or sex therapy can help rebuild intimacy. Progress often starts with small steps toward emotional closeness rather than immediate physical change.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Finding-your-way-back\"><\/span><b>Finding your way back<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every couple faces seasons when intimacy feels harder to hold onto&hellip; and that can feel scary, frustrating, or even lonely. The reasons are many&mdash;stress, health, life changes&mdash;but the hope is still real. <\/span><b>What matters most is patience, honesty, and the willingness to walk through it together.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learning how to cope in a sexless marriage isn&rsquo;t about quick fixes; it&rsquo;s about rebuilding closeness in ways that feel safe and genuine for both partners. With small steps, open hearts, and care for each other&rsquo;s needs, intimacy can return in its own time, stronger and more meaningful than before.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false,"raw":""},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>When passion cools, or intimacy feels out of reach, it can be confusing&hellip; even a little lonely. Some couples quietly wonder, &ldquo;Is it just us?&rdquo; while others wrestle with the silence in their own ways. The truth is, a sexless marriage isn&rsquo;t always about love fading away; it can be tied to stress, health, misunderstandings, or just the messy rhythm of daily life. What starts as &ldquo;we&rsquo;ll get back to it soon&rdquo; can stretch into months, and before you know it, the distance feels heavier than expected. It doesn&rsquo;t mean hope is gone, but it does mean paying attention to <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":733,"featured_media":112297,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[31],"tags":[2521],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/55041"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/733"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=55041"}],"version-history":[{"count":18,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/55041\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":114894,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/55041\/revisions\/114894"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/112297"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=55041"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=55041"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=55041"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}