A sexless marriage can lead to emotional disconnection, increased stress, and potential relationship dissatisfaction, often affecting overall intimacy and communication between partners.
Overview
A sexless marriage refers to a relationship where there is little to no sexual activity between partners. This can be defined as engaging in sexual activity fewer than 10 times per year. While sexual frequency varies, a prolonged lack of intimacy can strain a relationship emotionally and psychologically.
Understanding the problem
Symptoms
- Lack of sexual interest or activity
- Emotional distance between partners
- Frustration, resentment, or feelings of rejection
- A sense of being disconnected from your partner
When to see a doctor
It’s important to seek medical or psychological help if a lack of intimacy is causing emotional distress, creating conflict in the relationship, or if there are concerns about physical health contributing to the issue.
Causes
- Psychological Causes
- Biological Causes
- Risk Factors
- Depression, anxiety, or stress impacting libido
- Emotional distance or unresolved conflicts between partners
- Fear of intimacy or performance anxiety
- Past trauma related to sexual experiences
- Hormonal imbalances (low testosterone, menopause)
- Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or obesity
- Side effects of medications (e.g., antidepressants, blood pressure drugs)
- Fatigue or lack of physical energy
- Long-term stress or chronic illness
- Relationship issues such as infidelity or poor communication
- Past trauma or sexual dysfunction
- Age-related declines in sexual desire or hormone levels
Diagnosis
A thorough medical and psychological evaluation is important. Doctors may assess hormone levels, medical history, and emotional well-being to understand the root cause of the lack of intimacy.
Behavioral Therapy
- A thorough medical and psychological evaluation is important. Doctors may assess hormone levels, medical history, and emotional well-being to understand the root cause of the lack of intimacy.
- Individual therapy to address stress, anxiety, or past traumas affecting sexual desire
- Sex therapy to rebuild intimacy and address sexual dysfunction
Medications
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for low testosterone or menopause-related issues
- Medication adjustments if sexual dysfunction is caused by side effects
- PDE5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil, to address performance-related issues