c= Keys To a Healthy Relationship: Ways to Keep LoveAlive (NAPSA)—Relationships provide joyful benefits of companionship, support andlove. But it takes commitment and timeto cultivate a relationship that endures the daily demandsandstress. Whenit comes to having an exciting, yet also healthy and lasting relationship, love is not the only thing that matters. Qualities such as communica- tion, laughter and the art of seduction arecritical. According to clinical psychologist and certified sex therapist, Dr. Judy Kuriansky (known as “Dr. Judy” to her millions of fans), the foundation for a strong and healthy relationship is summarized in the “three T’s”: Time: Pencil in one hour at least two nights each week into your busy schedule to spend together— for just you and your partner to enjoy each other’s company. Trust: Honesty is important in a relationship so stay true to your word, don’t keep secrets, and don’t betray each other’s trust. Talk: Share feelings and talk about your experiences. Whether on the phone, over a quiet dinner, taking a walk, or in bed, always keep the lines of communication open. Whenit’s time for “pillow talk,” Dr. Judy cautions that there are certain subjects that should beleft outside the bedroom. These include such “hot button” issues as politics, gun control, financial problems, and previous relationships—sure to get you both riled up and douse any romantic flames. Intimate moments are not the time, and bedrooms are not the place, to try to convince your partner of your opinions. So, what should couples discuss in bed? Appropriate subjects are found in the “four Cs:” serve to bring spontaneity back into intimate encounters. According to a recent survey conducted by Opinion Research Corporation of men and women ages 18 to 44, half report that they do not regularly use contraception. (The margin of error is plus or minus five percentage points.) Women are twice as likely as men to initiate conversations al \, \ \ a ys about contraception. Approximately 70 percent of men do not Dialogue is important for a healthy relationship. initiate conversations about con- Compliments: Point out all the ways you adore and appreciate each other. Showing honest, heartfelt appreciation for your partner’s best qualities is an important part of making you both feel special and desirable. Commitment: When you’re cuddled in each other’s arms is a good time to discuss your mutual devotion. Suggest getting away for Yet, nearly 50 percent of the men fad—a recommitment ceremony where vows are restated, often in front of family and friends. Children: If you’re thinking about having children, talk about the joy that children will bring to you as a couple and howit will intensify the excitement of your union. If you already have children, focus on their growth and many successes, Contraception: This is a and can be discreetly applied by a womanin the privacy of her home. a second honeymoon or—the latest chance for you to solidify your experience of sharing responsibility, and to show mutual consideration and love at its most intimate. In fact, it’s a good subject to discuss before getting into bed. For- tunately, there are new options available that not only help to facilitate open discussion, but also traception, leaving it up to the woman to begin the discussion. and women surveyed report that having such intimate conversations about contraception actually improves their relationship and makes them more comfortable. One contraceptive option an increasing number of women are trying is NuvaRing, a flexible, transparent, vaginal ring that pro- vides month-long protection against pregnancy. It is easy to use It offers a number of benefits, including: A monthly option, not daily or weekly like other contraceptives. A continuous low dose of estrogen, which means less chance of unwanted side effects, such as headache, nausea, breast tender- ness and irregular bleeding. Ease of insertion and removal. The exact position is not important for the product to be effective. As long as it’s in the vagina,it’s working. For more information and prescribing information, speak with your health care provider and call 1-877-NUVARINGor visit www.nu varing.com.
