Comparisons

It's human nature to wonder how you measure up to others and to wonder if you're 'normal'. Due to people's privacy in the sexual realm, you may lack a frame of reference for where you stand. It might help you to know that if you're struggling with sexual problems, you've got a lot of company.

In a recent survey, over 56% of those polled reported dissatisfaction with their sex life. The most commonly reported problems were lack of desire and erection difficulties. Another very common issue was the inability of women (70%) to climax during intercourse. Because intercourse provides little direct stimulation of the clitoris, most women need at least 20 minutes or so of foreplay in order to reach orgasm - and still may not do so during intercourse. That's normal. As men and women age, both may need more foreplay in order to get aroused.

Just knowing how you compare to others doesn't solve your sexual problems, but it may help you take the problems less personally. When you're not blaming yourself or your partner, you're closer to a solution.