One in Four Americans in Serious Relationships Find Themselves Daydreaming About Other Partners, Lovense’s Latest Research Finds

When was the last time your relationship felt electric? For many couples, the butterflies have faded, replaced by predictable routines, quiet distance, and intimacy that feels more like a checkbox than a thrill. If your relationship has started to feel more like a habit than a heartfelt connection—you’re not alone and it’s far more common than you might think

According to a new survey by sex tech pioneer Lovense, one in four Americans in serious relationships is currently experiencing a ‘relationship rut.’ The study, which polled 2,000 individuals, also found that 26% feel their partnership needs a spark—and reveals effective ways couples are breaking out of these ruts and reigniting their connection.

It’s a quiet truth many couples keep to themselves: their intimacy has slipped into autopilot for a long time. According to Lovense research, a surprising 24% of people in serious relationships admit to fantasizing about other partners—a symptom of a deeper disconnect. And it’s not just fleeting boredom. A staggering 63% worry that these intimacy issues could eventually end their relationship if left unaddressed. The survey results uncovers some clear warning signs:

50% say romantic gestures have all but disappeared
– 46% report sex feels routine or lacks passion
– 41% feel communication has taken a hit
– 32% are simply bored in the bedroom

What’s driving the disconnect? A dull sex life plays a big part. Nearly half of respondents (48%) say they have sex just one to five times a month, while 13% gave their sex life a harsh—but honest—failing grade of ‘F.’

But there’s good news—revitalizing your relationship might be easier than you think. This survey reveals that couples are taking powerful steps to bring back the passion. Key strategies include improving communication (62%) and trying new experiences together (43%), with 36% of couples reporting real success in reigniting their intimacy. 11% of couples are turning to technology—like innovative toys and AI-powered solutions—to bring excitement back into the bedroom.

What’s even more surprising? Among the 31% who have been in or are currently in a long-distance relationship, 20% say their connection is even “spicier” than couples living nearby. For 83% of these couples, technology is key in maintaining a strong bond and enhancing intimacy, proving that tech isn’t just a tool for distance—it can strengthen any relationship, no matter the proximity.

Clearly, technology is taking intimacy to new heights, and its role in sexual wellness is only growing. Dan Liu, CEO of Lovense, shares: “Technology is not about replacing human connection—it’s about enhancing it, keeping things fresh, and helping couples rediscover that spark—whether they’re together or apart.”

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. 24% of couples are incorporating sex toys into their experiences. From experimenting with new sexual positions, to open communication during sex and exploring role play, couples are stepping out of their comfort zones to keep things exciting.

Keeping a long-term relationship exciting doesn’t have to be complicated. Even small changes—like introducing tech innovations to the bedroom—can spark intimacy and strengthen connections.” says Dan Liu, CEO of Lovense.

As a sex tech pioneer, Lovense are always committed to helping couples reconnect and explore new dimensions of pleasure through cutting-edge technology. At CES 2025, the brand captured widespread media attention with its bold showcase of next-generation innovations, including AI-powered toys designed to keep long-distance couples intimately connected in real time, and touch-sensitive devices that seamlessly blend pleasure with interactivity—allowing users to control digital games through physical sensations.

By pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sexual wellness, Lovense continues to lead the conversation on how technology can enhance human connection in a rapidly evolving world.