International Polyamory Day always leads to a spike in people considering the question – could I love more than one person at once? And if I can, how to approach polyamory? If you’ve thought about this before, you might be wondering how to get started. The world seems to be made up of exclusively couples or single people – where do you even find polyamorous partners?
Here at Mega Pleasure, we know that love comes in all different shapes and sizes. From self-love to group love, all is valid and beautiful. So, if you’re intrigued by the idea of more than one partner, and want to know how to approach polyamory, this is the article for you! We’ve outlined some of the most important things you need to know to get started on your polyamory journey.
Popular Types of Polyamory
You might be wondering, what is polyamory? Like relationships between two people, polyamory can take many different forms and styles to suit the people within the relationship.
One of the most popular and well-known types of polyamory is an open relationship. In this type of polyamory, each partner in a couple is allowed to seek outside relationships. Normally there are boundaries put in place by the couple before engaging in an open relationship, to ensure that everyone understands the limitations of the arrangement. For instance, some couples might place a limit on the number of sexual encounters with another party, or the type of intimacy and sex acts that are permitted.
Other types of polyamory include triads and quads, in which three or four partners make up the primary relationship. There is no hierarchy in these relationships – each partner is equal within the group. There is also fidelity to the group – no outside partners are taken by any of the group without prior agreement.
How Does Polyamory Work Sexually?
This can be the toughest part of polyamory. Knowing how polyamory works sexually is crucial to ensuring you and your partners have the best possible experience. This is where another key part of polyamory (and any relationship) comes in – communication. Good communication is crucial to ensure that all parties are happy.
Discuss the sexual side of your relationship with your partners. talk about what you each want, what you’re comfortable with and what you’re not. For instance, one partner might not be comfortable with penetrative sex between two of the group without the other being aware or present. Building trust in your polyamorous relationship is crucial, so all partners be clear on the dos and don’ts of your relationship.
Aside from setting boundaries and limits that are agreed upon by all parties, there are no set rules for how polyamory works sexually. You might engage in sex with only one partner at a time, all together or two people could have sex while the third watches. You might enjoy bringing sex toys into the relationship as well. Whatever you enjoy as a group is what is important.
Reach Out to Local Communities
Though polyamory might be a fairly niche sexual orientation, there are still plenty of ways to find your people. Starting out online can be a good choice – there are plenty of forums, chatrooms and social media platforms dedicated to those of us who find love with multiple partners.
You might also be surprised by how easy it is to find polyamory communities in real life! A quick Google search might be all you need to find local groups. This can be a great way to connect with like-minded people, learn more about polyamorous relationships and maybe even find your first polyamorous partners.
Make sure to take proactive steps to keep yourself safe if meeting up with people you’ve met online – always meet in a public, safe place and let trusted loved ones know where you’ll be.
How to Approach Polyamory and Enjoy Quality Relationships
Now that we’ve outlined the basics of what polyamory is and how polyamory works sexually, you’re on the right path to get started. There’s always more to learn, so keep reading up on the topic until you feel completely comfortable. Make connections within the polyamory community and ask questions – the more you know the better. Take your time and move at a pace you’re comfortable with.
We’ve got more advice on all things sex and relationships on our blog. Read about tips to maintain sexual wellness during the winter and things you didn’t realise were a kink today!
