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Friends With Benefits: 4 Tips for a Successful FWB Relationship

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Jun 7, 2021 • 1 min read

One way to meet your sexual needs is to enlist a trusted friend, but it takes skill to navigate the sometimes tricky space between friendship and sex partner.

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What Does Friends With Benefits Mean?

Friends with benefits, also known as FWB, is when friends engage in casual sex. FWB relationships are generally more intimate than passionate and typically lack romance. This kind of relationship can provide perks like the opportunity to explore sex and intimacy without the pressures of a committed relationship.

4 Tips for a Successful Friends With Benefits Relationship

Like all relationships, a friendship with benefits requires work. Consider these best practices for your friends-with-benefits arrangement.

  1. 1. Get on the same page. Before entering a FWB relationship, check in with yourself and your friend to make sure you're both interested in the same type of relationship. If your sex partner wants a romantic relationship and you’re interested in just sex, there may be a power imbalance that can complicate boundaries.
  2. 2. Set ground rules. The first thing to consider is how the relationship will work for you and your friend. Are romantic feelings totally off the table, or is it just that neither of you is interested in a committed relationship? Do you have other partners? Are the two of you good friends, or do you simply enjoy each other's company? Do you want to cuddle or sleep over after sex? Setting boundaries and expectations ahead of time can help prevent confusion and heartbreak in the long run.
  3. 3. Talk about safer sex. As with any sexual relationship, it's important to discuss safer sex before engaging in sexual activities. Have a frank conversation with your friend about STIs, any other sexual partners, getting tested, and using protection.
  4. 4. Check in regularly. Minds change, and so do relationships. Frequently checking in with your friend on the FWB situation is the best way to ensure a healthy relationship.

Let’s Talk About Sex

Craving a little more intimacy? Grab a MasterClass Annual Membership and learn more about open communication with your partners, experimenting in the bedroom, and being your own best sexual advocate with a little help from Emily Morse (host of the wildly popular podcast Sex With Emily).