How Parenthood Changes Intimacy

Why It Matters

The finding reshapes common expectations about intimacy in marriage and parenthood, suggesting couples and therapists should focus on adapting expressions of passion rather than assuming its decline. This has implications for relationship counseling, sexual-health messaging and how couples plan for family life.

Summary

A survey cited in the discussion found married respondents reported sex nearly twice as often as singles—about nine times a month versus five. The speakers challenge the notion that passion inevitably fades in long-term relationships, arguing that passion can persist though it may manifest differently over time. They note that parenthood introduces practical obstacles—less time, altered interaction patterns and shifting perceptions of partners—that can change how passion is expressed. However, the presence of those obstacles does not mean passion has disappeared.

Original Description

Married couples are having almost twice as much sex per month as singles. Did that surprise you?

Listen to my full conversation with OB/GYN Dr. Shepherd on the Good Inside Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. 🎙️