Everyone I'm seeing says they want casual sex. What they do instead is vexing.

Key Points:

• A 32-year-old genderfluid person navigating polyamory and friends-with-benefits (FWB) relationships struggles to distinguish between FWB and dating due to unclear communication and differing definitions of terms like "date" and "flirting."
• The advice emphasizes the subjective nature of relationship vocabulary and the importance of explicitly discussing and agreeing on definitions and boundaries with partners to avoid misunderstandings and emotional confusion.
• For managing FWB dynamics, it is recommended to clearly communicate non-romantic intentions, avoid romantic gestures (e.g., flowers, sleepovers), and be prepared to end relationships if partners develop unreciprocated romantic feelings.
• Another letter addresses discomfort with swallowing semen, suggesting that taste changes are difficult to achieve and encouraging partners to respect personal boundaries without taking offense, while exploring the emotional reasons behind preferences.
• A third letter discusses post-sex pain during withdrawal, recommending that the partner experiencing pain see a pelvic floor therapist and gynecologist for evaluation and treatment, while the supportive partner can assist with appointments and emotional support.