UPDATE: In a crucial revelation for busy parents, psychotherapist Vanessa Marin has shared effective strategies to combat declining intimacy in relationships. As parents juggle daily responsibilities, many find their sex lives suffering. Research indicates that 37% of mothers report feeling “very dissatisfied” or “dissatisfied” with their sexual frequency, primarily due to lack of time and energy.
Marin emphasizes that initiating intimacy can transform relationships. “Initiating sex is about showing your partner that they’re important and that intimacy is a priority for you,” she states. This approach helps couples reconnect, particularly when exhaustion sets in after a long day of parenting.
In a striking statistic, 74% of millennial mothers cite time and energy as the biggest barriers to their sexual satisfaction. Marin urges parents to rethink expectations around intimacy. “Instead of waiting for the ‘perfect moment,’ which rarely happens, consider small gestures,” she advises. Simple actions like a quick kiss or a playful touch can help reignite the spark.
Marin also addresses the imbalance of initiation in relationships. “Both partners should initiate,” she stresses. When one partner always takes the lead, it can create feelings of burden and disconnection. Open communication about desire and needs is essential. “It would mean so much to me if you initiated sometimes, too,” she suggests as a conversation starter.
Additionally, Marin encourages parents to incorporate non-sexual touch into their daily interactions. Acts like cuddling, flirting, or sending a flirty text can maintain intimacy levels even during chaotic times. “Even just looking up when your partner enters the room matters,” she highlights.
For those struggling to find time for intimacy, scheduling sex may be a practical solution. “If you’re not intentional about carving out that time for each other, it’s simply not going to happen,” Marin explains.
As couples navigate the challenges of parenthood, these insights from Marin offer a lifeline. With the right mindset and communication strategies, parents can foster a fulfilling sexual relationship, transforming bedtime from a source of stress into an opportunity for connection.
The takeaway? Don’t let exhaustion dictate your intimacy. Embrace these actionable tips to reconnect with your partner and prioritize your relationship amidst the parenting whirlwind.
