Is porn overuse impacting your relationship?
Hey, y’all, porn can be a lot of fun, trust me. Whether you like it soft and titillating or rough and hands on, porn is often a part of our relationships, even if we don’t immediately realize it.
That’s why after Pornhub shut down access to its site in Texas in March 2024, Google searches for the term “VPN” jumped right on up. And I know all of those aren’t for the French version of Netflix. But while porn can be a lot of fun to watch (or make), there can be too much of a fun thing. So here are some signs you should look out for if you think your partner’s porn use is impacting your relationship.
What does porn overuse look like?
The American Psychiatric Association doesn’t recognize porn overuse as a true “addiction.” However, overusing pornography can have an effect on how people engage in their everyday lives. Common signs of porn overuse can include:
- Ignoring or avoiding daily responsibilities to watch pornography
- Growing feelings of shame for pornography use, but still watching it
- Sex life becomes less satisfying
- Spending a significant amount of money on pornography
- Using pornography as a coping mechanism for difficult feelings or mental health issues
Remember, these are signs of porn *overuse*. Watching porn doesn’t mean you or your partner are going to develop these symptoms just ‘cause. But it’s important to notice these signs in a relationship and step in when things look like they are becoming a problem.
Effects of pornography on a relationship
Pornography isn’t inherently negative in a relationship. In fact, it can provide some benefits when paired with open communication and active engagement from both partners.
Pros of pornography in a relationship
Porn use in a relationship can help in building an emotional and sexual connection between you and your partner. Together, you both could talk about what you like, don’t like and want, which can create a positive and free sexual connection between you.
Cons of pornography in a relationship
It’s not all roses, y’all. Porn can also disrupt emotional vulnerability between you and your partner. As a result of this desensitization, both of you may eventually try to find emotional support elsewhere. In some cases there may be increased incidents of secrecy and isolated behavior.
Don’t let porn overuse harm your relationship
My lovelies, if y’all think porn is harming your relationship and you don’t know what to do, then I’m here for you.
Contact me today for your free initial session
You can survive this and more importantly you both can become stronger together
Gabriela