Many relationships go through a “honeymoon period. ” When this period ends, the relationship may start to feel different. This does not necessarily mean you are falling out of love, though. [1] X Research source Major life changes may impact the amount of stress in your relationship. These changes can make your relationship feel different, but that doesn’t mean it’s doomed to stay that way. If you are having a difficult time telling whether your relationship is being impacted by external forces or internal feelings, consider seeing a couple’s therapist with your partner. [2] X Research source
You may find that you recoil when your partner attempts to touch you. Their once welcome caresses are now no longer wanted by you. This is often a strong indicator. [3] X Research source Keep in mind that changes in physical contact don’t necessarily mean you have fallen out of love. It is important to consider whether physical contact is changing because the relationship is changing, or because you and your partner genuinely do not like showing affection to one another anymore.
You may also find that the quality of your intimacy has decreased. You may not enjoy the act as much anymore, or you may not feel emotionally connected. [4] X Research source Don’t confuse different levels of intimacy with the absence of desire. It’s natural for intimacy to wax and wane throughout the course of a relationship. However, if you feel physically repulsed by your partner and have little or no desire to connect with them physically, this could be a warning sign of a deeper issue.
You may also find that you don’t mind if you see your partner checking out others. [5] X Research source
For instance, you may hear yourself nitpicking at your partner constantly, or frequently criticizing what they do. You may also find yourself talking negatively about them to your friends and family.
You may not be interested in what they have to say, or may feel like they don’t deserve to have your ear. [7] X Research source
The communication signs may be subtle at first. For example, the quality and subject matter of the conversations may begin to get more superficial. Over time, you may feel like you’re talking less and less frequently. Eventually, it may feel like you don’t talk at all. [8] X Research source
If you find yourself spilling intimate details with someone other than your partner, you may have fallen out of love. Your tendency to intimately communicate with other people could demonstrate that you’re trying to fill a void in your relationship.
You may also find yourself changing the subject when your partner talks about your future together. You may start backing out of plans you have always talked about, such as having children or buying a home together. [10] X Research source
Similarly, you may find yourself just ignoring problems that you would have tried to solve before. You may not feel the relationship is worth the effort, or you may simply no longer care. [12] X Research source
The same thing goes for when your partner says they love you. Hearing the words may make you feel uncomfortable or even guilty. [13] X Research source
