Is it normal to feel uncomfortable with physical touch from a partner?

Many individuals experience discomfort or aversion to physical touch from a romantic partner at various points in their relationship. This can stem from a variety of factors, including past experiences, stress, or even just differing preferences for physical affection. It's a common experience that doesn't necessarily indicate a problem with the relationship itself.

Research indicates that approximately 1 in 3 adults report experiencing a period of reduced desire for physical intimacy with a partner at some point in their long-term relationship.

See other perspectives

<h1>Am I the only one who feels uncomfortable with physical touch from a partner?</h1>

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone feel uncomfortable with physical touch from a partner sometimes?

Does Everyone?

Is it weird to feel uncomfortable with a partner's physical touch?

Is It Weird?

Why do I feel uncomfortable with physical touch from my partner?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

We'd do video calls and stuff but I just couldn't handle, like, him actually being HERE. …

intimacy avoidance

i gotta get this out cuz it’s eating me alive and i cant tell anyone in real life not my bestie not even my little brother like this is TOO MUCH so like it started a few years ago when i met jake at… …

intimacy avoidance

i know this is gonna sound BAD but i only date guys who are like COMPLETELY unavailable and it's not even like an accident you know like i actually SEEK them out. …

intimacy avoidance

And everyone was all like, "Oh no, long distance, that’s so hard, you guys are so strong! …

intimacy avoidance

you know that feeling when your gut twists up real bad, like when you drop your phone and it hits the concrete but you haven't looked yet to see if the screen's cracked? …

intimacy avoidance

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I used to enjoy touch but now I don't?▾
Changes in how you experience physical touch can happen over time due to life changes, stress, or shifts in relationship dynamics. It's not unusual for preferences and comfort levels to evolve, even if they were different in the past.
Does feeling uncomfortable mean I don't love my partner?▾
Not at all. Emotional connection and love are distinct from physical comfort. You can deeply care for and love your partner while still experiencing discomfort with certain types of physical touch or at certain times.
Can stress make me dislike physical affection?▾
Yes, high stress levels can significantly impact your desire for and comfort with physical touch. When your body and mind are under pressure, your capacity for intimacy often decreases, making touch feel less appealing or even overwhelming.

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