Feeling constantly cautious around a partner can quietly erode confidence and identity, even in a loving relationship. While emotional sensitivity and differing sexual needs aren’t flaws, they become problems when they limit honesty and comfort. Open communication is essential to address emotional triggers and mismatched intimacy expectations

My boyfriend and I have been in a relationship for six months but whenever we have an argument, he makes comparisons between me and his ex-girlfriend. I don’t react to this, but it sometimes feels as if he wishes things had worked out with him and his ex. I am made to feel like an afterthought, like someone he chose to be with only because he could