The Truth About Sex Drive in Long-Term Relationships (From a Sex Therapist)

In this episode, Dr. Brandon discusses why men tend to have a higher sex drive than women in long-term relationships—and how biology, emotional patterns, and relationship dynamics all play a role. 00:41 Research and Misconceptions Dr. Brandon breaks down how common beliefs about equal sex drives aren't backed by actual research. 01:56 Impact of Relationship Duration She explains how women's sex drive often drops in long-term relationships, even if it was high early on. 04:36 Dual Control Model of Sexual Desire The model shows how desire depends on a balance between what turns someone on and what shuts them down. 05:49 Inhibitory and Excitatory Factors Women tend to have more things that reduce desire and fewer that boost it—especially over time. 11:37 Understanding and Improving Intimacy Dr. Brandon emphasizes that couples aren't stuck—understanding these dynamics can help rebuild connection. Resources: Bancroft, J., & Janssen, E. (2000). The dual control model of male sexual response: A theoretical approach to centrally mediated erectile dysfunction. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 24(5), 571–579. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0149-7634(00)00024-5 With Dr. Abraham Morgentaler and Dr. Marianne Brandon Listen to the podcast on all of your favorite platforms: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ec/podcast/the-sex-doctors/id1761813985?l=en-GB Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0apSFzquJXKoOGnmI6ndgT?si=e5a1e482c7ca46c7 Find us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesexdoctors?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesexdoctors YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesexdoctorspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesexdoctor LinkedIn (Dr. Abraham): https://www.linkedin.com/in/abraham-morgentaler-md-81628b6 LinkedIn (Dr. Marianne): https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariannebrandon-59224513 X (Dr. Abraham): https://x.com/DrMorgentaler X (Dr. Marianne): https://x.com/drbrandon #SexDriveDifferences #LongTermRelationships #SexualDesireUnderstanding