ADVERTISEMENT

How to turn down s*x without hurting your partner's feelings

Sexual rejection can be a difficult pill to swallow, but being the person who is rejecting sex doesn't feel that great, either.

How to turn down sex without hurting your partner's feelings

Maybe you are annoyed that our partner initiated sex and clearly couldn't read our mood or the situation, and so, you roll your eyes, criticize your partner’s timing and initiation strategy, or even push them away entirely. Or you might feel bad because you hate saying no and disappointing your partner, so you agree to have sex to make them happy.

Turning down sex doesn't necessarily hurt relationship satisfaction, as long as we do it in positive ways. Here are three approaches to keep in mind.

  • Clearly explain why you're saying no.

If you’re not in the mood for sex when you’re partner initiates it, one of the best things you can do is explain to them why you're not in the mood.

ADVERTISEMENT

That’s because many people naturally take sexual rejection personally. They can drive themselves into a tizzy trying to come up with a reason why they are being turned down, often landing on it having something to do with them, so, it’s important to tell your partner why you can’t have sex at that moment.

  • Suggest another time

When it comes to sex, a flat out "no" can feel pretty harsh.

Sexual rejection usually feels a lot more manageable when we’re given a safety net. Something like: "I'm not feeling it right now, but maybe we could try on the weekend, once my work deadline has passed" is at least better.

  • Find another way to connect.
ADVERTISEMENT

Just because you're not in the mood for sex doesn't necessarily mean you have to turn down other bids for connection and closeness.

Perhaps sexual activity is off the table, but a nice cuddle, hand holding, a meaningful conversation, or even a game or activity you both enjoy might feel pretty good.

It might not be sex, but if your partner is reaching out as a way of feeling close, there are several different ways that this can be accomplished, even when sex doesn't feel like an option.

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng

Recommended articles

A billionaire is building a new Titanic ship — when is the first trip?

A billionaire is building a new Titanic ship — when is the first trip?

Anyone who lives in this beautiful villa is cursed with bad luck

Anyone who lives in this beautiful villa is cursed with bad luck

Sony’s creators convention redefines creative landscape for content creators

Sony’s creators convention redefines creative landscape for content creators

Abortion, cohabitation and other 'sins' Catholic Church does not forgive

Abortion, cohabitation and other 'sins' Catholic Church does not forgive

5 drinks that stain teeth and how to keep your teeth white

5 drinks that stain teeth and how to keep your teeth white

5 tips for escaping a car sinking underwater

5 tips for escaping a car sinking underwater

The largest snake in the world Ana Julia is dead — unknown gunmen suspected

The largest snake in the world Ana Julia is dead — unknown gunmen suspected

10 sexual benefits of watermelon for men and women

10 sexual benefits of watermelon for men and women

8 sexual benefits of ginger for men and women

8 sexual benefits of ginger for men and women

10 Sex Positions for Super-Deep Penetration

10 Sex Positions for Super-Deep Penetration

What It Feels Like to Use a Butt Plug While Masturbating

What It Feels Like to Use a Butt Plug While Masturbating

11 Ways Men Can Make Their Orgasms Even Better

11 Ways Men Can Make Their Orgasms Even Better

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT