Friends with benefits while in a relationship (is it okay? How to handle the situation?)

By: Naveen B

Friends with benefits while in a relationship can be a tricky and complicated situation to navigate. On the one hand, engaging in a friends with benefits relationship outside of a committed relationship can be seen as a form of cheating and can lead to hurt feelings and trust issues.

On the other hand, exploring sexual relationships outside of a committed relationship can be a way for individuals to explore their sexuality and satisfy their needs without the added emotional complexity of a committed relationship.

In this blog post let’s discuss Is it okay to have a FWB while in a relationship, what are the potential issues that may arise and how to handle the situation.

Friends with benefits while in a relationship

friends-with-benefits-while-in-a-relationship

Can you have a fwb while in a relationship?

Is it okay to have fwb while in a relationship? I have encountered numerous couples who engage in friends with benefits (FWB) relationships while being in a committed relationship.

While it is not uncommon, it is essential to understand the implications of such relationships on the primary relationship.

First and foremost, it is crucial to understand that FWB relationships are not a substitute for committed relationships.

These relationships are built on mutual sexual gratification, without any emotional connection or commitment. The participants are free to pursue other relationships, and the FWB relationship is considered a casual one.

If you engage in an FWB relationship without the knowledge and consent of your boyfriend or girlfriend, it can be considered infidelity or cheating, which can cause hurt and betrayal.

Moreover, an FWB relationship can blur the lines between physical and emotional intimacy, leading to confusion and misunderstandings.

Even if your partner is aware and okay with the arrangement, it can still be emotionally difficult for them to see you being intimate with someone else. It could also potentially create feelings of jealousy or insecurity.

It could also lead to a situation where one person develops stronger feelings than the other, which can be hurtful and damaging to the friendship and/or committed relationship.

Therefore, if you are considering an FWB relationship while in a committed relationship, it is crucial to have an open and honest conversation with your partner.

You must make sure that both of you are comfortable with the arrangement and understand the boundaries and expectations of the FWB relationship.

It is also essential to keep communication lines open and continuously check in with each other to ensure that the primary relationship is not being jeopardized. If either of you feels uncomfortable or unsure about the FWB relationship, it is crucial to end it immediately.

Additionally, engaging in a friends with benefits relationship while in a committed relationship can be a sign that there are underlying issues in the committed relationship that need to be addressed.

It’s important to take the time to assess the reasons behind the desire for a friends with benefits relationship and address any underlying issues in the committed relationship that may be causing dissatisfaction or disconnection.

Ultimately, whether or not a friends with benefits relationship is appropriate while in a committed relationship depends on the individual circumstances and the desires and boundaries of both partners.

It’s important to approach these types of situations with care and consideration for the feelings and needs of everyone involved.

Also read: 50 FWB Texting Rules (with examples, tips, questions to ask while setting texting rules)

I have a fwb and a boyfriend, how to handle the situation?

Having a boyfriend and a friend with benefits can be a challenging scenario to navigate, and there is no single solution. However, I can offer you some insights and recommendations that might help you.

First and foremost, it is important to recognize the emotional complexity of being in multiple relationships. It is natural to feel attracted to more than one person, but it is equally essential to recognize that everyone involved has feelings that should be respected.

You must assess the dynamics of each relationship and decide whether it is worth keeping.

One key aspect of navigating this situation is communication. It is vital to have an open and honest conversation with both your boyfriend and your friend with benefits.

Make sure that you are clear about your expectations and boundaries for each relationship. Be honest with them about your feelings and intentions, and be willing to listen to their perspective as well.

It is important to recognize that not everyone will be comfortable with this type of arrangement, and it may not be feasible to continue with both relationships.

Another critical aspect to consider is your emotional needs. It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of having two relationships, but you need to ensure that you are taking care of yourself emotionally.

Make sure you are not neglecting your own feelings or the feelings of those involved. It is also essential to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself physically and emotionally.

In conclusion, navigating a relationship with a friend with benefits and a boyfriend is not easy. It is important to communicate openly, respect everyone’s feelings, and prioritize your emotional needs.

Ultimately, you will need to decide what is best for you and what will bring you the most fulfillment in your relationships. It is essential to remember that there is no one right way to navigate this situation, and you must find what works best for you.

Also read: 15 Friends with benefits with an ex rules (with examples and tips)

Is it ok to have multiple friends with benefits? 

I believe that having multiple friends with benefits (FWB) can be a complex and challenging situation to navigate. While it may seem like a fun and carefree arrangement, there are several factors that must be considered before engaging in multiple FWB relationships.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the nature of a friends with benefits relationship. This type of relationship is typically casual and non-committal, and it is based on mutual physical attraction and sexual compatibility. It is not intended to be a long-term romantic relationship or a substitute for emotional intimacy.

With that in mind, it is possible to have multiple friends with benefits, as long as everyone involved is aware of the situation and is consenting. However, it is important to be honest with yourself and with your partners about your intentions and your expectations.

This means discussing what each person is comfortable with and what the expectations are for the relationship. It is crucial to ensure that everyone is on the same page to avoid misunderstandings and hurt feelings.

Also read: I ended my fwb will he be back (25 reasons he might come back)

Are you looking for variety and exploration, or are you simply not ready for a committed relationship? Make sure you are clear about your motives and desires, and don’t lead anyone on or make false promises.

It is also important to practice safe sex and to communicate openly and honestly with all of your partners. This includes discussing your sexual history and any potential risks, as well as using protection to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections. Be respectful of your partners’ boundaries and preferences, and be prepared to have difficult conversations if necessary.

One potential downside of having multiple friends with benefits is the potential for jealousy and emotional attachment. While these relationships are meant to be casual, it is not uncommon for one or more parties to develop feelings or expectations beyond the physical aspect of the relationship.

If this happens, it is important to be honest with yourself and your partners, and to communicate openly and respectfully about your feelings.

Before jumping into multiple friends with benefits relationships, it is crucial to engage in self-reflection and ensure that engaging in multiple FWB relationships aligns with one’s values and goals.

It is essential to consider whether the arrangement is fulfilling, healthy, and aligned with one’s overall well-being.

In conclusion, it is possible to have multiple friends with benefits, as long as everyone involved is aware of the situation.

However, it is important to be honest with yourself and your partners, to practice safe sex, and to communicate openly and respectfully about your expectations and boundaries.

If you are unsure about whether this type of relationship is right for you, consider seeking the advice of a licensed therapist or counselor.

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Experienced Psychology and philosophy Writer, self-help and relationship Coach and thought influencer. He has 7 years of experience in Personal development industry. His expertise as a self-help and relationship Coach has been highlighted through his articles in medium and substack to name a few. To be updated with his latest work, connect with him by following his social media accounts.

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