How important is sex in a relationship?

When it comes to love and relationships, the importance of sex is probably one of the most frequently talked about topics. Physically, an active sex life has many benefits, including reducing pain and helping you live longer. And, according to Psychology Today, it is a well- established finding that people with active and happy sex lives experience higher levels of well-being. So, why is sex important to your relationship?

Sex increases happiness in your relationship

A study published in Psychological Science looked into just that. The researchers found that even one single sexual act created something that they called an “afterglow”. They suggested this sexual afterglow, or increased level of sexual satisfaction, could possibly account for increased happiness in a couple’s relationship. The afterglow lasts for about 2 days after having sex and the stronger the afterglow the higher the overall levels of marital satisfaction.

Affection and emotional bonding

A more recent study found it is not sex itself that causes changes in satisfaction, but it is the love at its foundation. As Debrot and colleagues concluded, sex promotes more affection and a positive and stronger connection between partners. When you have sex with your partner, you feel more positive emotionally towards him or her. And the more often you have sex, the more such feelings you will have. This has a cyclical affect—the emotional bonding of sex, encourages you to have more sex and the sexual act strengthens your emotional connection. So sex, affection and emotional bonding build towards a better and more fulfilling relationship.

Sex is the spark that is often needed to keep desire going throughout the chaotic life that most couples have. Without sex, it can often feel like you are in a roommate-type partnership instead of a sexual relationship. This can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment which will negatively impact your relationship.

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