Sex is an important part of a healthy relationship, and it’s often a topic that causes some anxiety or discomfort. Many couples wonder if they’re having enough sex, or if they’re having sex too frequently.

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to how often couples should have sex, there are some general guidelines that can help you determine what works best for you and your partner. In this article, we’ll explore some of the factors that influence how often people have sex, and offer some suggestions for maintaining a happy, healthy sex life.

Factors that Influence Sexual Frequency

There are a number of factors that can affect how often couples have sex. Some of these factors include:.

1. Age

As people age, they tend to have less sex.

According to a study from the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University, people between the ages of 18 and 29 have sex an average of 112 times per year, while people between the ages of 30 and 39 have sex an average of 86 times per year. After the age of 40, sexual frequency tends to decline even further.

2. Relationship Length

Couples who have been together for a longer period of time tend to have less sex than new couples. This may be due to a variety of factors, including familiarity, routine, and competing priorities such as work and raising children.

3. Health

Physical and mental health can also play a role in sexual frequency. People who are dealing with health issues may have less interest in sex, while people who are feeling healthy and vibrant may have a greater desire for it.

4. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can have a major impact on sexual frequency. When people are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, they may not have the energy or desire for sex.

Additionally, people who are struggling with anxiety or depression may find that their sex drive is significantly reduced.

5. Communication

Strong communication skills are essential for a healthy sex life. Couples who are able to openly and honestly communicate about their desires, needs, and limitations tend to have more satisfying sex lives than those who struggle with communication.

Recommended Sexual Frequency

While there isn’t a single answer to how often couples should have sex, research suggests that having sex once per week may be a good benchmark for most couples.

According to a study published in the Archives of Sexual Behavior, couples who had sex once per week reported greater satisfaction in their relationship than those who had sex less frequently.

However, it’s important to recognize that every couple is different, and what works for one couple may not work for another.

Some couples may prefer to have sex more frequently, while others may be perfectly happy with less frequent sexual activity.

How to Maintain a Happy, Healthy Sex Life

Regardless of how often you choose to have sex, there are some things you can do to maintain a happy, healthy sex life:.

1. Prioritize Communication

As we mentioned earlier, communication is key to a healthy sex life. Make time to talk openly and honestly with your partner about your desires, needs, and limitations, and be willing to listen when your partner shares their thoughts with you.

2. Experiment with New Things

Trying new things in the bedroom can help keep things interesting and exciting.

Whether it’s exploring a new fantasy or trying out a new sex position, experimenting with new things can help you and your partner stay engaged and satisfied in your sex life.

3. Make Time for Intimacy

In our busy lives, it can be easy to let intimacy fall by the wayside. Make a conscious effort to prioritize physical intimacy with your partner, even if it means scheduling it in your calendar.

Taking time for intimacy can help you and your partner feel more connected and satisfied in your relationship.

4. Prioritize Your Health

As we mentioned earlier, physical and mental health can play a major role in sexual frequency. Prioritizing your health by exercising, eating well, and getting enough sleep can help you feel more energized and interested in sex.

Conclusion

Sexual frequency can vary widely between couples, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to how often couples should have sex.

However, prioritizing communication, experimenting with new things, making time for intimacy, and prioritizing your health can all help you maintain a happy, healthy sex life.