Is physical intimacy important in a romantic relationship between two people?
The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all reply to this question. The answer will depend on a person and what they value and what their background is. It will all boil down to personal beliefs, values, desires, and the type of relationship you have with the other person.
Is it needed for healthy romantic relationships?
In a world where sexuality sells and physical intimacy is so-desired by many people, there is a group of people who are happily content and satisfied with their lives and relationships without the pressure to engage in coitus.
Different people have different reasons for not wanting or rarely having intimacy with their partners. Some of these include:
- Having a low drive
- Having a physical condition, like chronic pain, that makes intercourse traumatic
- Waiting for the right time to have it
- Wanting to abstain from it until marriage
Given the emphasis on it and how vital it is in a romantic relationship, many couples seem to be doing fine without it (or getting by on very little of it). Lack of it doesn’t automatically mean that the relationship is unhealthy, pathetic, and sad. It surely isn’t an indicator that the other person doesn’t love or value you.
Why all the fuss about physical intimacy?
The act is an important part of a relationship. Yes, it is. However, it is not the end-all and be-all of it.
Emotional Connection and Intimacy
It is a relationship aspect that increases intimacy and adds some spice and fun to the relational dynamics of couples. It is a great way to bond with each other and connect on a whole new level, especially if they’re on the same wavelength.
Exclusivity
It gives them a sense of exclusivity that they can only share and not with anyone else. It is something that couples should take seriously as something special and sacred that only belongs to them. You can hug your family and friends and even give them a peck on the cheek or forehead, but physical intimacy is meant to take place between only you and your partner.
Procreation and Family
Couples who want to have babies and start a family need the act to achieve their familial goals. However, it isn’t the only way to build a family. Certain medical and physical circumstances prevent couples from conceiving naturally. Thus, they need to go with other choices such as in vitro fertilization or adoption.
Pleasure and Play
Not everyone who regularly engages in it with their partner aims to start a family. A lot of people do it just for fun. While many other things can give one joy and delight, nothing compares to the pleasures one gets from intercourse with a loved one. Bedroom adventures make spice things up for couples and help keep the romance alive in the relationship.
Exercise and Health
The truth is that it is a great cardiovascular activity that helps improve your heart health and boost your immune system and cognitive function. It’s also a great stress reliever that makes you feel good about yourself.
Responsibility and Control
People who engage in responsible and safe activity show respect for their partners. They show their concern for their partner’s welfare by taking the necessary measures and protection they need for some good clean, fun.
It teaches younger people that it is no game and has serious consequences like STDs and unwanted pregnancies. While they can easily go to a specialist at a treatment center or an abortion clinic, they need to recognize that it needs to be exercised with responsibility and self-control.
What do you do if your drive isn’t the way it used to be?
Many factors come into play when your libido decreases and is no longer how it used to be. According to Mayo Clinic, here are some of the things that can change your drive as the years go by:
- Stress
- Relationship challenges
- Hormones
- Age
- Medical or physical conditions
- Medication
- Trauma
If your libido affects your relationship, you need to initiate a conversation with your partner and face the brutal facts together. You need to be honest and transparent with them, especially if physical intimacy is a big part of your relationship.
Seek counsel from a couples counselor and see a physician to get advice on how to go about this unusual season in your life.
Even if your drive decreases, it still shouldn’t hinder you from enjoying the other aspects of your relationship with your partner. The key is to commit to working together through the ups and downs of life.
