4 myths about healthy sex

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Ever wonder if everyone is having lots of perfect sex… except you and your partner?

Most of us question how our sex lives stack up. In fact, chances are your sex life is in better shape than you think—even with the occasional off-night or dry spell.

Here, four top myths you shouldn't buy into.

Myth #1: You both need to be in the mood
It's normal for sex to be a little ho-hum for one or both spouses up to 15 percent of the time. Any number of factors can throw things a bit off-kilter: timing, your mood or his, the amount of foreplay, life stresses, you name it. Rather than postponing until the planets align, have sex when you can—and don't interpret an off night as a sign of a failing relationship. If your man seems disengaged, just be affectionate and look forward to next time. To keep things exciting, make a point of venturing out of your comfort zone occasionally with new positions, locations, and sexy videos.

However, if one or both of you is never, ever in the mood anymore, consider seeing a therapist or medical doctor to rule out any underlying health problems.

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Myth #2: The best sex is spontaneous
It's a fact of modern life: What we don't schedule, we don't do—and sex is no exception. Expecting it to just happen spur-of-the-moment could lead to long dry spells, whereas penciling it in on your calendar is a show of commitment; plus, it gives you both something to anticipate.

I advise my clients to establish a weekly time for intimacy, meaning anything from sex to cuddling. Choose a time you can both commit to easily, without exhaustion or daily responsibilities getting in the way. Devoting that time should take you back to those eagerly anticipated first dates.

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Myth #3: You must have sex three times a week
Having sex regularly nourishes a relationship, sure, but don't get too caught up in the counting. Most happy couples don't have sex every day or even two or three times a week. What's important is that you both are satisfied with the frequency.

If that's not the case, start a discussion outside the bedroom by saying something like, "We don't have sex as often anymore, and it worries me." And remember: There's more to a healthy sex life than just sex. Get your RDA of intimacy by cuddling, holding hands, and spontaneously hugging and kissing.

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Myth #4: Good sex is long and slow
Few of us can afford the luxury of leisurely sex. (Frankly, most of us secretly think it sounds like more work after an exhausting day.) And holding out for the ideal moment can lead to infrequent or, even worse, vacation-only sex. The solution? Embrace the quickie. Think of it like a sex snack, sure to boost your energy and put you back in the mood. For extra excitement, break out of the bedroom: Five-minute romps are perfect for unusual locations.

This article originally appeared on Health.com.

Dr. Jennifer Berman is the director of the Berman Women's Wellness Center and the author of For Women Only.