Nearly 1 in 3 married Americans aren't having sex — expert reveals how to bring back the spark

Physical intimacy isn’t a regular occurrence for every married couple in America, research suggests.

Recent data from the General Social Survey, conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago, shows that 32.5% of married adult respondents said they have not had sex "at all" during the last 12 months.

Just 4.1% reported that they have sex more than three times a week.

Dr.

Anna Elton, a licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical sexologist in Massachusetts, told Fox News Digital that although sexual frequency varies by couple, the national standard is about once a week.

The expert defined a "sexless marriage" as being physically intimate 10 or fewer times per year.

HOW OFTEN ARE MARRIED PEOPLE HAVING SEX? WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE INTIMACY STANDARD IN AMERICA Decline in intimacy can be caused by a variety of factors, from juggling busy families to hormone imbalances, she noted.

In most cases, however, the original relationship spark has faded.

Elton, author of the book "The Formula of Desire," shared some tips and exercises for livening up a relationship, with the goal of reigniting intimacy in the bedroom.

For couples who may be struggling with their marriage or sex life , Elton suggested that the first step should be to focus on what is going well.

"If there are too many resentments built up, the wall is too high," she said.

"And then partners can't just be intimate.

They need to start with emotional connection." COMMON MARRIAGE HABIT COULD QUIETLY KILL YOUR SEX LIFE, EXPERT WARNS For one week, Elton recommended focusing on the positive aspects of the relationship, making mental notes and sharing them with your partner.

This exercise can "shift the whole relationship," she said.