3 tips to strengthen your relationship.

This is a collaborative post. 

Let’s face it, keeping a long-term relationship on track can be difficult – especially if you’ve got kids. The good news is, there are some straightforward steps you can take that could have a seriously positive effect on your partnership. So, if you think your relationship is in need of a little TLC, keep reading. The following three tips could help you.

1. Be honest about problems in the bedroom

Keeping the spark alive between the sheets is a challenge for many couples who’ve been together for a long time, but it can be impossible if you or your partner is experiencing problems related to sex. In men, erectile dysfunction is a common problem that can get in the way of physical intimacy, while some women find they experience pain during sex. A loss of sex drive is also a common problem that can affect both men and women.

Although lots of people experience issues like these, they’re often not talked about because sufferers feel embarrassed or ashamed. The trouble is, if there’s something stopping you from enjoying the physical side of your relationship and you’re not honest about the cause, you risk driving a wedge between you and your other half.

There are a range of effective treatments available for sexual problems, so there’s no need to suffer in silence. For example, trusted pharmacies such as Online Doctor LloydsPharmacy offer targeted erectile dysfunction medicines including Viagra. Tackling underlying health issues can also help, and talking therapies can be useful in many cases too. If you or your partner is affected by a problem in the bedroom and you’d like advice about the treatment options, it’s worth booking an appointment with your GP.

2. Spend quality time together  

Between work, looking after the kids and running your household, you and your partner might struggle to squeeze in quality time with each other – but it’s really important to make an effort. Even if it’s just once a fortnight, make sure you clear a space in your schedule to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Whether you go for a meal, catch a movie or simply take a stroll somewhere nice, this should help you to reconnect.

If you have kids, arrange childcare for a few hours so you can have some space just for yourselves – and try to steer clear of conversation topics like money and chores.  The whole point is to focus on each other and have a good time.

3. Make unexpected gestures

To make sure your other half feels appreciated, consider making unexpected gestures from time to time. For example, why wait for birthdays or Christmas to give a romantic gift? A surprise present is bound to put a smile on their face and make them feel valued and loved. From preparing a candle-lit meal in the middle of the week to booking a surprise mini-break, there are a whole range of ways you can wow that someone special – and you can spend as much or as little money as you like.

Showing you care like this can help to put the magic back into your relationship and bring you closer as a couple.

There’s no denying that keeping a relationship strong can be a challenge at times, but following suggestions like these can be a big help.