When it comes to intimate relationships, confidence has always been a bit of an enigma. Just how important is high self-esteem in relationships? Does confidence come from a healthy sex life, or is it a necessary ingredient to get things moving in the first place? Is confidence sexy, or are sexy people confident?

While questions may linger, one thing is certain: Confidence is a worthwhile goal for those looking to improve their relationships. Let’s take a look at what experts say about how self-image affects relationships, and what you can do to improve your confidence between the sheets.

Yes, confidence is a big deal in the bedroom.

Actually, it’s a big deal in all aspects of a healthy relationship. Studies show that women with low self-image are 19% less satisfied in their marriages. Additionally, people with high self-esteem are more likely to take emotional risks which are necessary for the health of a partnership.

In the Hite Report, a landmark study of sexuality, one woman shared that  “What started me off into having [orgasms] was a great deal more confidence in myself which has been a steadily growing feature of the last several years, talking plainly about sex and the sex we were having with my husband and experimenting with different things to do in bed.” Other Hite Report participants agreed that increased confidence and communication helped to increase their sexual satisfaction.

But the question still stands – how do you get that much-needed confidence in the first place? Here are a few tips from experts in the field.

Get your head in the game.

If body image concerns are creeping into your head during intimate moments, it might be worthwhile to flip the switch. Sex therapist Annie Gunn told Business Insider that focusing on the sensations in your body and the bond with your partner may help to dispel self-doubt during an encounter. In the same article, sexologist Kristie Overstreet adds that self-conscious lovers should “Remember that sex is supposed to be fun and not taken too seriously.”

Get healthy.

We’ve already written about the bevy of research about how exercise can improve your sex life. Besides helping with sexual performance and erectile dysfunction, regular workouts can also have a great effect on body image. The endorphins released from exercise don’t hurt, either!

Give it time.

Many women in the Hite report alluded to the sexual confidence that comes with age. According to an article published by Harvard Health, it takes many women until their 30s to gain confidence in the bedroom. When she reaches age 40 and older, orgasms can become more intense and body-comfort increases. Men can also shed preconceived notions about body image, erectile performance, and other issues as they age, allowing for a healthier sex life. As we’ve said before on this blog, the concept of hitting leaving a “sexual peak” behind as we age is far from the reality for many Canadians!

Confidence is for everyone.

Confidence is not something you are born with. It is built through time, a healthy lifestyle, and a good mindset. With the right steps and attitude, sexual confidence is attainable for anyone at any age.

That said, if more serious issues are plaguing your sex life, calling for reinforcements may be your best option. Our clinics help Toronto and Vancouver men access medically sound, non-intrusive treatments for their erectile dysfunction. If ED is affecting your confidence and performance in the bedroom, call us at 1-877-500-1177 or schedule your free initial consultation online today.