Dr. Anna Elton discusses why stressed partners may lose interest in physical affection \u2014 and how regular check-ins, gratitude and intentional time together can change the dynamic at home.<\/p>\n
Physical intimacy isn\u2019t a regular occurrence for every married couple in America, research suggests.<\/p>\n
Recent data from the General Social Survey, conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago, shows that 32.5% of married adult respondents said they have not had sex "at all" during the last 12 months. Just 4.1% reported that they have sex more than three times a week.<\/p>\n
Dr. Anna Elton, a licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical sexologist in Massachusetts, told Fox News Digital that although sexual frequency varies by couple, the national standard is about once a week. The expert defined a "sexless marriage" as being physically intimate 10 or fewer times per year.<\/p>\n
HOW OFTEN ARE MARRIED PEOPLE HAVING SEX? WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE INTIMACY STANDARD IN AMERICA<\/p>\n
Decline in intimacy can be caused by a variety of factors, from juggling busy families to hormone imbalances, she noted. In most cases, however, the original relationship spark has faded.<\/p>\n
A clinical sexologist defines a "sexless marriage" as having sex 10 or fewer times per year. (iStock)<\/p>\n
Elton, author of the book "The Formula of Desire," shared some tips and exercises for livening up a relationship, with the goal of reigniting intimacy in the bedroom.<\/p>\n
For couples who may be struggling with their marriage or sex life, Elton suggested that the first step should be to focus on what is going well.<\/p>\n
"If there are too many resentments built up, the wall is too high," she said. "And then partners can't just be intimate. They need to start with emotional connection."<\/p>\n
COMMON MARRIAGE HABIT COULD QUIETLY KILL YOUR SEX LIFE, EXPERT WARNS<\/p>\n
For one week, Elton recommended focusing on the positive aspects of the relationship, making mental notes and sharing them with your partner. This exercise can "shift the whole relationship," she said.<\/p>\n
"A lot of conversations in long-term relationships end up being just logistics," she said. "So, think about [avoiding] the neutral conversations or negative conversations."<\/p>\n
The expert shared that she\u2019s seen many women who say they lack any desire to be intimate due to stress and a lost connection to their partner. (iStock)<\/p>\n
In her own practice, Elton said she\u2019s seen many women who lack any desire to be intimate due to stress and a lost connection to their partner.<\/p>\n