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Is a new relationship possible without sex?

(11 Posts)
Dazy Mon 11-May-26 20:52:19

I'll try to keep this short. I'm mid 50s and so is my soon-to-be new man friend!
We are reunited after being in love at University, having decades apart, becoming parents and divorcees and then joyfully finding one another again. It's an incredibly happy reunion and he makes me cry with laughter all the time. We're so similar, lots of common ground.

The trouble is, I can't have sex anymore and he's clearly v attracted to me. Its medical stuff and I don't at my age want to do the other stuff! 🥴

We've met up a few times now and it's been so beautiful. I am drawn to him but feel no real physical chemistry, it's like that part of me has shut down entirely.

I told him when I first met him I can't have sex therefore no more relationships , he joked "can't you just go really slowly" but I smiled and said I'd never risk hurting myself.
On our last date, he kissed me at the end and it felt revolting! Tongues, yuk!
I used to be very passionate once upon a time including with him but after a barren decade or so and fear of sex I have literally shut up shop down below...

He wants to see me this Saturday, I agreed because I want to see him but should I reiterate the point about sex? He's suggesting visiting me at home which has connotations doesn't it?
How to phrase it?
Thanks for any advice

MissAdventure Mon 11-May-26 21:11:01

I think it's very possible, but only if both are happy with the "no sex" stance.

kittylester Mon 11-May-26 21:16:55

I'm a bit confused about what 'the other stuff' is.

I think you do need to reiterate your stance.

Graphite Mon 11-May-26 21:21:49

There's more to sex than penetration but if you are finding even kissing a turn off and say you feel no physical attraction then what you have is a re-found friendship and no more.

You could seek some medical advice about your lack of libido but for now you need to be frank with him about how you do or rather don't feel. If sex is important to him then you must give him a chance to walk away.

FWIW, I know a couple who got together under exactly these circumstances. He thought she would come around. She thought she might, but she never did. He has been seeking sex elsewhere ever since.

MissAdventure Mon 11-May-26 21:25:11

I know of women who would be perfectly happy if their partner sought sex elsewhere.

Hithere Mon 11-May-26 22:02:39

"he joked "can't you just go really slowly""

I am afraid he is not on the same page as you are.

MissAdventure Mon 11-May-26 22:10:17

He obviously is hoping for more than you're willing to give.
So, its up to both of you if that happens or not.

Dazy Mon 11-May-26 22:43:34

Thanks everyone your views are very helpful. I need to reiterate the message.
Sounds like he's got hope it'll change
I'm adamant it won't.
The 'other stuff ' is non penetrative sex ie oral, heavy petting...
Don't want any of it

MissAdventure Mon 11-May-26 22:50:03

You'll have to make it perfectly clear, because i reckon he thinks he can win you over.
Good luck, whatever happens.

twiglet77 Mon 11-May-26 22:54:38

I think it’s pretty certain he won’t stop trying to persuade you that you’ll like it if you go along with his desire. Whether he will push it to a point that distresses you is something only you can judge.

Men aren’t much good at accepting when a woman who adores them really doesn’t want any kind of sexual relationship, and surely you wouldn’t want him in your house with the nagging thought that his urge is to persuade you that you’ll actually do want to go further.

You need to firmly reiterate that you’re not just being coy, you enjoy his company but you have zero intention of pursuing any physical relationship. I wonder if he will take no for an answer.

Oreo Mon 11-May-26 22:56:31

I agree with MissAdventure you know you don’t want a sexual relationship with him, even kissing and he thinks he just has to take his time but that you’re going to give in eventually.