Sharing the love (and everything you need to know about poly pleasure)

But what happens when the one becomes two? When the perfect dinner date is a table setting for four? And can you really link up with more than one person and be truly happy?

It seems at least 20% of us have been curious enough to find out. If it’s ever crossed your mind too, here’s our ultimate 101 guide on non-exclusive partnerships.

What is a poly relationship?

Polyamory (sometimes referred to as ‘ENM’ or ethical non-monogamy) is a relationship type that involves having an intimate or sexual relationship with more than one person. In some cases, all parties are involved with one another; other times, certain people within the dynamic may share a connection but remain uninvolved with other partners.

At all times, ethical non-monogamy is consensual, and such relationships are built on the foundations of trust, open communication and lots of honesty. Not all ENM relationships are sexual, but many are.

What it isn’t

Despite more and more of us finding love and happiness in poly relationships, such dynamics can still be considered by some as an act of cheating or infidelity – but that’s not the case.

Where ethical non-monogamy applies, all partners involved are aware of each other’s intentions and are consenting for any sexual or romantic connections that their lovers may experience with someone else.

Types of poly relationships

Polyamory is a very personal experience and for each couple, throuple or group – the dynamic and set-up is determined by those exclusively involved. Polyamorous configurations can vary dramatically, but here are a few examples of how multiple-person relationships can work.

Do I want a polyamorous relationship?

Only you can really know (and even then, sometimes you don’t!). The idea of having more than one partner can seem thrilling, but occasionally, the reality can be quite different. No matter how open you think you might be, it’s natural to experience feelings of inadequacy, jealousy or to feel threatened by a third partner becoming part of your relationship.

Many polyamorous people can admit to feeling this way at times, but have found ways to manage their challenges for a healthier relationship.

Still, it’s not for everyone, but then neither is exclusivity and if you feel a desire to build romantic connections with multiple people, then ethical non-monogamy could be your one-way ticket to relationship happiness.

Thinking to take the plunge? Here are our top tips for a successful, happy and long-lasting poly dynamic.

Tips for successful a polyamorous relationship

Don’t make your decision for the wrong reasons

Just as there are many different types of poly relationships, there are many different reasons people choose to pursue one. The only real advice here is to make sure you’re choosing poly for the right reasons.

Making the decision as a way to ‘mend’ or ‘heal’ cracks within your current relationship usually won’t end well, so check in that both of you are feeling good about the current status of where you each are. Whether you’re single or coupled already, considering things like if you’ll have the time and capacity to date more than one person is also important.

Communicate your desires

Once you know that poly is something you definitely would like to try, you’ll need to start opening up the conversation. Be honest in your communication and detail what your ideas, desires and hopes for a poly relationship are.

Is ENM for you, about finding multiple personalities that sync with your own? Is it something you want to explore sexually, or do you wish to keep your romantic connections less physical? The more honest you (and your partner if it applies), can be, the better your chance of finding happiness.

Trust and be trusted

Once the ground work is done, it’s time to trust the process. Give your partner the autonomy needed to make the decisions that align with your earlier conversations. Trust that they’ll stand by their word, honour your current relationship and look after your best interests.

In the same way, make sure that you’re giving the same back to your partner. Any relationship requires mutual effort, so give as much as you expect back.

Talk about your feelings

You might find your poly adventure goes without a single hitch, but it’s not always smooth-sailing. If feelings of inadequacy or jealousy come to the surface, it’s best to talk it through and move forward with a solution. Even if you feel no threat at all, it’s natural to have feelings and emotions as you develop and establish new connections. Keep the conversation open and remember to check in regularly.

Rework the kama sutra

In some poly dynamics, it’s natural for more than two people to be involved together sexually but what happens when the kama sutra doesn’t cater for your multiple-person sex sessions? Hold fire, we’ve got you covered!

If you’re wondering about which positions are best for a three-way tango, or thinking about the best way to use well the space of your super Queen bed, here’s our round up of poly-proof sex positions. Simply change it up and adapt them to make them work for you. Steamy!

Top 3 Polyamorous Sex Positions

5 Minute Myth Buster