A fulfilling sexual relationship is a great pleasure. But,
if serious problems occur, then sexual therapy may be the answer.
It is a fact that when problems occur in their love-making,
many couples are unable to talk about it from fear of embarrassment.
Subsequently, it can place great and unnecessary strain on any relationship.
Sexual therapy provides the opportunity for partners to talk
freely with each other about their sex life and problems experiencing. This is
often easier to do with the help of a neutral third party. Once communication
has been established, the couple will have a foundation on which to build a new
sexual understanding.
Sexual therapy can also be educative. For although there is
a climate of openness about sex, there is still a great deal of misinformation
and ignorance about it. A professional counselor can provide basic information
and correct any misconceptions couples have.
The counselor can also teach couples a whole new range of
techniques to correct specific problems such as premature ejaculation,
impotence, frigidity or inability to achieve orgasm. Many of these are based on
the system of sensate focus or pleasuring techniques in which one
partner learns how to help the other gradually achieve enjoyment and
satisfaction, first by gently caressing each other’s bodies, then by genital
stimulation and finally through intercourse.
But, although there can be no substitute for expert help
with persistent sexual problems, couples can overcome many temporary
difficulties by themselves. For instance for the loss of desire both partners
should try to re-establish communication both in bed and outside it. They should
try to alter their lovemaking routine and give frequent reassurance that their
lovemaking is pleasurable and enjoyable.
