Are Couples Who Talk About Sex More Sexually Satisfied?
You’ve probably heard that “communication is key” in relationships. But, are couples who talk about sex more sexually satisfied? Three researchers at the University of Texas at Austin just released a new meta-analysis that aimed to answer that very question. The team looked at over 48 studies on sexuality, sexual dysfunction, and conversations about sex to determine if there’s a direct correlation between sexual communication and sexual function.
The researchers looked first at avoidance. When there are sexual problems in a relationship, they indicated that couples may understandably choose not to discuss it with each other out of shame, fear or uncertainty. But if you can’t express your needs to your partner, how can they help bring you pleasure? When you avoid talking about something as important as your own sexuality, you are only hindering your own satisfaction and overall health, and robbing yourself of an opportunity to connect with your partner.
The research indicated that sexual self-disclosure (when partners get brave and communicate their concerns and needs) leads to better sexual function, satisfaction, and future communication. That means that by expressing your personal preferences to your partner, both your likes and dislikes, you’re not only more likely to be fulfilled, but you’re also helping to strengthen the bond between the two of you. You’ll share better intimacy, trust and communication with your partner, increasing the likelihood of a happy, healthy, satisfying relationship.
It was also found by the researchers that when couples have open conversations, it increases desire, satisfaction and orgasms. This was particularly true in women, whose sexual desire is greatly enhanced by conversation. The correlation between sexual function and communication is strongest in married couples, though surely all couples who are able to communicate their desires are likely to benefit.
On the flip side, research indicates that couples who are unable to communicate their needs and desires often experience feelings of discomfort and distrust. Staying silent about your needs doesn’t just leave those needs unmet, it can also lead to resentments that build up over time and take a toll on you and your relationship.
Bottom line: the study indicates that couples who talk about sex are more sexually satisfied.
Imagine the pleasure and connectivity you could begin experiencing if you started sharing your sexual desires with your partner. It would build trust, intimacy and better communication between the two of you, all while helping you experience more pleasure and bigger, better and more frequent orgasms.