Lacking physical contact for extended periods can alter people's psychological state in various ways, including affecting their emotional stability, mental wellbeing, physical health, and social life. These changes are known to impact their intimate relationship, too. Long separations are detrimental to sexual health and relational satisfaction for both service members and their partners, especially if they fail to maintain communication during this time. In this article, I will explain why and how prolonged separation influences sexual health and relational satisfaction for soldiers and their partners.
During deployment, service members face severe stressors that disrupt their emotional balance and reduce libido. They must perform duties and risk their lives while missing home and loved ones. This stress causes a drop in testosterone levels, which leads to erectile dysfunction and other issues. Meanwhile, women experience vaginal dryness and lower arousal due to high cortisol levels. Stress also reduces intimacy and sexual desire, making it difficult to resume normal sexual activity when reunited.
Soldiers often lack privacy, space, and comfort needed for intimacy, as living conditions differ from those at home. Their spouses may feel emotionally distant, causing them to lose attraction for each other. This distance is widened by the need to share personal details about relationships with fellow troops. Sexual problems may arise as a result of fatigue, sleeplessness, or substance abuse. The absence of sex becomes a norm, so couples develop new routines, which can be challenging to break.
The physical distance strains the couple's bond, resulting in negative effects on mental health and self-esteem. Relationship satisfaction decreases as trust erodes over time. Soldiers may fear rejection upon return and worry about keeping up with relationship demands. Their partner might have been unfaithful during their absence, leading to feelings of betrayal and jealousy. This tension can escalate into conflict and affect sexual desire.
To maintain a strong connection despite separation, soldiers should prioritize communication with their partners. They should send letters, emails, and pictures regularly and engage in video chats whenever possible. They must seek help if they face sexual difficulties. Spouses should provide emotional support and reassurance, promoting honesty and openness. Both parties should explore alternative forms of intimacy, such as sending nude photos or videos, sexting, phone calls, or webcam sessions. These measures will help keep the flame alive until reunification.
Prolonged separations negatively impact sexual health and relational satisfaction for both service members and their partners. To mitigate these issues, soldiers should communicate frequently, maintain positive attitudes, and practice alternative forms of intimacy. Couples must also receive psychological support to address any underlying problems. Prolonged separations do not have to destroy relationships if proper steps are taken.
How does prolonged separation influence sexual health and relational satisfaction for soldiers and their partners?
Prolonged separations can have significant effects on sexual health and relational satisfaction for both soldiers and their partners. Research has shown that prolonged separation can lead to decreased sexual desire and arousal, reduced frequency of sexual activity, and increased levels of stress and anxiety related to sex (e. g. , fear of infidelity). This can create tension within relationships and impact overall relationship satisfaction.