London - Relationships start to lose their sexual spark after just one year, according to a new study.
Researchers found that in the first 12-month “honeymoon” period, 15 percent of couples have sex every day, compared to just one in 20 – 5 percent – of other couples.
More than half of couples that have been together for up to four years – 53 percent – have sex a few times a week. But after four years that number dwindles to just a few times a month for 43 percent.
For couples that make it past 15 years together, 15 percent only have sex a few times a year.
Overall, the bedroom antics of those surveyed leave a lot to be desired, with 40 percent describing their sex life as just “okay” or admitting it “could be better”.
A further three-quarters – 76 percent – admit that they could perhaps try harder between the sheets.
When asked what they would do to spice things up in the sack, 33 percent said lubrication while 24 percent believed dressing up or watching porn would help.
For a disappointing 17 percent, “turning off the light” was the extent of their efforts.
Nearly a third – 30 percent – admitted that at some point they have had problems getting aroused in the first place, according to the research that questioned 2 000 people in relationships.
Dr Tom Brett, , medical director at Lloydspharmacy Online Doctor, said: “It seems people have a lot to learn when it comes to enhancing their sex lives, but sometimes not being “in the mood” isn’t just about being tired, stressed or even fancying your partner, but a symptom of a medical condition.
“Erectile dysfunction will affect one in 10 men each year. However, our research has shown that very few are willing to take control.”
While more than half of women said they would be happy for their partner to take erectile dysfunction medication to enhance their sex life, less than a fifth of men (18 percent) would consider taking it.
Brett said: “The underlying causes of that missing spark could be symptomatic of a very treatable condition, so getting checked out could be worth more than just improving your performance.” – Daily Mail