When you’re in a relationship, it’s a balancing act of keeping a life together but also making sure that you both have lives of your own. But sometimes these separate lives will begin to bleed together, seeping into your “together” life. Friends that you normally hang out with alone might suddenly become buddy-buddy with your significant other, or your partner’s friends may begin to join you for a couple drinks every now and again. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, and can prove beneficial for the relationship, sometimes this “cross pollination” can lead to feelings of jealousy developing.
While seeing your partner get more friends is never a bad thing, it can be upsetting when it’s your friends. If your partner begins to spend more time with people within your friend group, even when you’re not there, it can lead to feelings of resentment and jealousy. While these feelings can be easily overcome by addressing your grievances with your partner and coming up with a solution together, if left unchecked, these feelings can build and lead to issues downstairs.
Yes, odd as it may seem, jealousy from your partner making new friends can lead to erectile issues. According to a study published in the American Journal of Sociology in 2011, seeing your partner cozy up to your pals can actually lead to erectile dysfunction. While more common amongst older men, men of all ages can experience issues in the bedroom when your partner suddenly begins hanging out regularly with your friends.
So, yes, jealousy can lead to erectile issues. But by being honest with each other, it can be avoided. Have a discussion about what is and what isn’t appropriate with your friends, and work together to determine how both parties can feel satisfied with the decision. Remember, no matter who hangs out with whose friends, at the end of the day you have each other. Don’t let jealousy ruin your sex life or, worse yet, your relationship.