Sexual desire can change over the course of a marriage, particularly with age and major life changes — and research suggests certain lifestyle and relationship factors may also contribute to a lower libido.But changes in desire or frequency do not necessarily mean a couple’s sex life is unhealthy, according to experts.Dr.Anna Elton, a licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical sexologist in Massachusetts, said there is "no medically prescribed number that defines a healthy sex life."HOW OFTEN ARE MARRIED PEOPLE HAVING SEX? WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE INTIMACY STANDARD IN AMERICA"What's healthy is whether both partners feel connected, satisfied and respected in their intimate relationship," she told Fox News Digital."For some couples, that may mean several times a week, while for others it may be once or twice a month.
The healthiest benchmark is mutual fulfillment."There is no set benchmark for how often married couples should have sex, as long as both partners feel fulfilled, an expert said.(iStock)Rather than comparing their sex lives to those of others, Elton encouraged couples to define what is healthy for their own relationship."Talk about what feels satisfying, how much time can pass before one or both of you starts feeling disconnected and what your warning signs are," she said.
"Once you've agreed on that range, make a commitment to maintain it together."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTERElton advised couples not to let too much time pass without "intentionally reconnecting," as prolonged disconnection can take a toll on the relationship."If we simply wait until the mood is perfect or the stars align, work, children and everyday responsibilities usually get in the way," she said."Healthy relationships require intention.
Both partners should share responsibility for initiating connection and creating the conditions where desire can develop."The expert advised couples not to let too much time pass without "intentionally reconnecting," a...