[LiteraryLark]

I'm talking about sex. Not casual sex, but other kinds of sex. I have this friend, and I don't know if I love him and I don't know if he loves me, maybe we love each other maybe we're just good friends I'm not sure, but we experiment sometimes and last time we decided that we (as in me) weren't ready for sex. But now I'm wondering, do I have to be in love for it to mean something? I don't want meaningless sex, but how can it be meaningful sex if I'm not in love?

What types of sexual relationships are there? Not physical sex, but is there more to it than love, casual, or friends with benefits?

[Harley47]

That's...difficult to answer, really, as the meaning of sex can vary wildly from person to person. As cliche of an answer as it might be, only you can really determine that. Sorry to offer so little in that regard.

That said, as you do seem to be hesitant about the love aspect not being there, I would say that for you, love is a significant factor in it being meaningful to you. I can see that in your post now, and I've observed that from you in the past. If that's important to you, I'd advise you to stick with it. Granted, I could be completely off in drawing that conclusion, as you know you better than I, so do take that with a grain of salt.

On the other hand, I have heard stories where people lose their virginity with a close friend, and while the love isn't necessarily there, they don't regret the decision. The act was handled with care, with mutual respect, and was done...well, right, for all intents and purposes. So it is possible that it be meaningful but not necessarily....romantic, in the stricter sense of the word (romantic in a legalistic sense instead of a more dinner and candles way). Ultimately, that (perhaps unfortunately, for offering advise) brings the question back to you.

As far as what types? lol Unfortunately, I've got nothing there. Sorry Doc.

[IndieVisible]

I think generally speaking sex is viewed differently between men and women. For women it's more special and intimate and loving. For most men, it's just a way to get off. No need for intimacy or love, tho we can fake it when needed. So with that in mind. If you were my daughter I would advise you to wait until you find a guy you feel comfortable with and one you think you can be with for ever before you have sex. At the very least understand that it can be very different for men and women. So you don't get hurt.

What do you want Doc? What does it need to mean to you specifically?

[doggiedo]

I think it does mean a little but more for me, a a woman, if I'm emotionally attracted to my partner and in a strong relationship. Otherwise it's not good sex. Mind u I haven't been with that many guys either.

[MarlboroChick]

Sex can mean a whole lot of different ****. It can be out of love, hate and anger, desperation, anxiety, boredom, whatever. Ive only had 'romantic sex' a small handful of times, really. It depends on the person.