Quiz: Is your marriage heading for a breakup?

Sexual relationship
Sex is definitely one of those men-are-from-Mars-women-are-from-Venus areas. "Men always want sex, regardless of what else has gone on during the day," says Jane. "I could've had the most foul day with the kids and be very angry, and there's Jim rubbing his hand up and down my thigh. I tell him to get lost, but that doesn't stop him. I don't get it."

And that, in a nutshell, is the fundamental difference between men and women on the topic of sex. For men, sex is sex. For women, it's part of the whole relationship. So how do you get both parties on the same page, especially when most people don't like to talk about sex, particularly with their partners?

When things are going well in a relationship, the sex is usually great. But when there are problems that aren't being dealt with, it's lousy. When it comes down to it, sex is really the emotional barometer of a relationship. So it's no surprise that couples who enjoy a good emotional connection have the best sex.

Talk to each other openly about what you want, and do it in a positive way. Compliments, cards and little gifts are all tokens of affection that will help your partner open up to you. Everyone wants to feel special, and you'll be amazed at how far little gestures can go to heat up your love life.

Between the sheets
Response choices:
1=Strongly disagree
2=Disagree
3=Undecided
4=Agree
5=Strongly agree

1. I am satisfied with the amount of affection my partner gives me.
2. We have similar sexual interests and expectations.
3. My partner uses or refuses sex in an unfair way.
4. We have difficulty keeping our sexual relationship interesting and enjoyable.
5. It is easy for us to talk about our sexual relationship.

Interpreting your score:
Score the quiz as follows for each of you.
A. Total your points for items 1, 2 and 5.
B. Add 12 to total of A.
C. Total points for items 3 and 4.
D. Subtract C from B.

Partner 1:
Partner 2:

21–25 = You are very satisfied with your sexual relationship.
15–20 = You are satisfied with your sexual relationship.
11–14 = You are generally satisfied with your sexual relationship.
5–10 = You are dissatisfied with your sexual relationship.