‘We have not had sex since the dog came into our lives’

— When pets affect human relationships From prophetic pooches to clingy cats, Guardian readers share tales of how pets have influenced their love lives, for better and worse By Doosie Morris While humans have kept domesticated animals for tens of thousands of years, there’s no evidence that anyone was ever driven out of a cave …

If You’re Only Interested In Hooking Up, Here’s How To Say So

— Because you’d rather head to the bedroom, not down the aisle. By Elyssa Goodman When it comes to dating, honesty and communication are considered the two biggest tools in creating and maintaining a successful relationship. And relationships, as we know, come in all different flavors. Casual sex is of course one of them. So …

How Long Is Too Long Without Sex in a Relationship?

— The answer is…complicated. By Kayla Blanton If you and your significant other suddenly feel a bit distant—whether it’s due to a post-honeymoon dip in excitement or the wedge of chaotic work schedules—it’s easy to spiral about the relationship’s fate, and Google: How long is too long to go without sex? There, you’ll find plenty …

How Lube Helped Me Unlock A New Level Of Sexual Pleasure

By Hilary Shepherd I recently located my clitoris, which, at 33 years old, sounds way overdue. Alone, inspired by a conversation I had with a sex therapist, and apparently horny on a Saturday night, I decided to forgo my rotating collection of vibrating sex toys, which I’d always enjoyed while watching porn and wearing underwear …

Overcoming Adult Toys Stigma

— Embracing Pleasure Without Shame In today’s society, the stigma surrounding adult toys can often prevent individuals from fully embracing their sexuality and exploring pleasure without shame. This unnecessary guilt not only suppresses personal growth but can also impact one’s overall mental and physical well-being. Adult toys, when used responsibly, can provide numerous health benefits. …

Study on evolution of same-sex animal behaviors underscores stigmas in research

By Swati Thapa A new study tracing the evolution of same-sex sexual behavior in mammals, using phylogenetic analyses, suggests these behaviors may have evolved in part to strengthen social bonding and relationships. Same-sex sexual behavior was observed in 261 species, which constitutes 4% of all mammal species; the research adds to a growing list of …

19 Expert-Backed Tips For Keeping Your Long-Distance Sex Life Hot

— Relationship experts share their advice for keeping the intimacy alive when you’re miles apart. By Caroline Bologna Long-distance relationships can pose a number of challenges, but the lack of physical touch can be especially difficult. That doesn’t mean it’s a hopeless situation, however. If you find yourself in a long-distance relationship (whether in “unprecedented” …