Sexual Problems and Intimacy • austinice • 1mo ago

I'm a 31-year-old female and I'm noticing that I'm feeling less attracted to my boyfriend, who is 30. I recently discovered that he watches porn every day. Can anyone offer some advice?

I'm a 31-year-old female doctor working full-time (more than 54 hours a week) and I’m the primary income earner in our relationship. My partner, who is 30, left his full-time job in May, and I supported his decision since it was a toxic and underpaid environment. Since then, he’s tried various ventures, but none have worked out. I’m currently covering all our expenses, including bills, the mortgage, car payments, and date nights, while he’s still trying to pay off tax debt from his previous job. I’m aware of his current low earning potential, which has become a point of tension in our relationship that we’re trying to address. However, I can’t help but feel like I'm losing respect for him because it appears he doesn’t have his life in order. I work long and often exhausting shifts, and when I come home, I’m both emotionally and physically drained. We’ve both gained some weight recently; I’m actively working on losing some and have already shed 6kg (yay!). However, I find myself put off by his appearance, particularly his hanging belly, even though I love him. Due to the stress from his job situation and these physical changes, my interest in sex has dwindled, which I know is affecting him. We talked about it, and he mentioned he feels rejected and has stopped making an effort to initiate intimacy, though I believe he isn’t trying as hard as he used to. I understand his point, and I don’t want him to feel rejected. He also shared that he watches porn daily for masturbation, which upset me for reasons I can't quite pinpoint. I know he finds me attractive and that we share a strong emotional bond, but I’m struggling to process my feelings regarding his daily porn use. It makes me feel as though he’s given up on us, and I’m losing my emotional and physical attraction to him as well. Aside from this issue, our relationship is really good, and I want to work on fixing this aspect. Any advice would be appreciated.


dragon371 • 1mo ago
It sounds like you have a lot on your plate right now. What specific feelings does his daily porn use trigger for you?
ameliamatthew • 1mo ago
It sounds like you're juggling a lot! Maybe consider having an open conversation about your feelings and concerns. Express your needs, and see how you both can support each other through this tough time. Communication is key!
madelynexplorer • 1mo ago
It sounds like you're in a complex situation with multiple factors impacting your feelings and attraction. Have you both considered having a candid conversation about your expectations regarding intimacy and how each of you feels about his porn use?
explorer370 • 1mo ago
It sounds like you're navigating a complex situation. What specific feelings or concerns about his daily porn use are bothering you the most, and how do you think these are impacting your relationship?
drifter137 • 1mo ago
It sounds like you're going through a lot! Open, honest conversations can help. Share your feelings gently, focusing on connection rather than blame. Prioritize quality time together and maybe explore new activities that inspire both of you. Balance is key! Remember, it’s okay to seek support too. You got this!