How to Resurrect Your Sex Life

Has your relationship ended up in a sexual desert? Perhaps the two of you went through a rough patch (often occasioned by a health scare) and stopped making love. Then — even though you never imagined a dry spell could become the prevailing climate — that desert began to seem too vast to cross. So how do you end the drought?

As a professional sex researcher and relationship coach, I've heard from many people who resist broaching the subject with their partner because they fear rejection. A man in his late 60s, for example, told me his wife turns her back as soon as he slips between the sheets — the unmistakable message being "Don't even think about it." A couple in their mid-50s revealed they hadn't slept together in 11 years; first he had an operation, then they had marital issues, and before long their sex lives had become history, not current affairs. And don't think the disappointment dims with the decades: A man of 80 recently disclosed his sadness at the fact that his wife had stopped wanting sex.

Suspending sex may not be all that uncommon for a couple, but rarely are both members willing to say good-bye to the practice for good. At least one partner likely feels cheated, even betrayed; wasn't sex supposed to be part of that whole "till death do us part" deal?

It can be difficult to end a sexual drought, but it's not impossible. If the situation is dire, see a therapist: A skilled professional can tease out why the sex stopped, and what it might take to resume it. She or he can help each partner let go of whatever fears or grudges may be keeping sex at bay. Just as helpful, the therapist can prescribe exercises designed to slowly reintroduce physical contact — an approach I recommend. (Qualified therapists can be located through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists.)

If you prefer not to involve a therapist, try this gradual, step-by-step method yourselves:

Schedule a chat. Ask your partner to set aside a time to talk about your sex life (or lack thereof). If your partner balks, you may have to press. "It's not optional," you can point out. "I would do something this important for you if you asked me." Unless your relationship is in tatters on all fronts, this should get you permission to discuss it. If there are medical issues — a bad hip, perhaps, or heart-attack concerns — agree to see a doctor for an exam (and, most likely, some reassurance).

Make contact. Hold hands while you have this discussion. You'll find the physical connection calming: It forges a bond that mere words cannot.