Be honest about your REAL turn-ons… and six other ways to stop the seven-year-itch in bed

OUR sex and relationship columnist Dr Pam Spurr regularly brings you must-know info for the bedroom and beyond. Follow Dr Pam on Twitter @drpamspurr

We’ve all heard of the seven-year itch, but does it really exist? New research from Professor David Spielgelhalter (I assure you this isn’t a joke and he’s not a bra manufacturer) confirms couples must be cautious at this time.

In fact, what better iconic photograph to represent the seven-year itch than Marilyn Monroe, in sexy white dress, skirt blown upwards.

That “whoops” moment went down in history. And crikey, if ever a woman could tempt a man into a fling it’d be someone like Marilyn.

If you’re coming to the seven-year mark follow these top tips to prevent straying or even a break-up.

1. Ratchet up desire

Remember when you first met and couldn’t resist sending flirty – even dirty – messages? Now it’s all about household bills, maybe baby things, just dreary stuff.

Start peppering your messages with flirty suggestions. Your partner’s eyes will light up with the memories of hotter times. You’ll both feel more in the mood for fun-time.

2. Get honest about turn-ons

You two have gone through the motions for the last few years. Deep down, though, you’ve hankered after something new. Maybe you’d love him to pretend to be a foxy fireman who comes to your rescue. You decide he needs a shower after all his “hard” work – you slip in too, of course.

Maybe you’ve wanted her to go “fifty shades” on you. It’s easy, drop a few hints, tell her she can be your Mistress and you’ll do her bidding.

3. Dump the trackie bottoms

It’s easy to slip on the same, greying-from- too-many- washes, tracksuit bottoms. Oh yes, feels like heaven after a long day.

But if you want a hope in heck of rekindling things, make the effort once or twice a week to put on something sexy. That goes for the guys too!

4. Put new shine between the sheets

One study found if couples revamped their bedroom, it freshened up their sex life. If money’s tight, do a minimum re-style – buy a new throw for the bed, a couple of scarlet coloured cushions, some scented candles, etc.

5. Carve out time away

If you can’t afford a naughty weekend, plan a saucy Saturday or Sunday away. Take a picnic of finger foods, discover a local beauty spot, flirt with each other.

Then go for gold with a standing position under a tree. She can lean against it, he comes in from behind. Doing something a bit daring is a sure-fire way of rekindling your spark.

6. Don’t forget why you fell in love

Once upon a time you were mad for each other – and mad for it! Take the simple step of reminding yourself each day why you fell for your partner.

What was it? Their GSOH, twinkle in their eye, the way you could talk about everything? Focus on these.

7. Stop the blame game

Relationship research found couples who admit when they’re wrong, who could say sorry, and who accept they should change their behaviour, were the most successful.

This includes everything from always being too tired for sex (ask for more help from them and promise to be more loving back), to knowing you don’t do your fair share of chores.

Trust me, take these steps. I’d be rich for every time someone told me they’d given into the seven-year itch, cheated, and regretted it.

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