Because the phrase "sleeping together" is usually used as a euphemism for having sex, we rarely talk about actually sleeping next to a loved one. However, sharing a bed with someone special can be one of the most reassuring and comforting aspects of your day. But what if your partner's sleeping habits interfere with catching quality Z's? Snoring, kicking, stealing the sheets, and differing bed times can get in the way of a good night's sleep. In fact, nearly 25 percent of those in relationships sleep alone because their partner interrupts their sleep, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Despite this fact, Dr. Beth Malow, a sleep specialist at the University of Michigan, encourages couples to stick to spooning. Dr. Malow and many other sleep experts believe that peaceful sleeping together can keep a marriage healthy.

If I can get a better night's sleep by sleeping alone, then why should I share a bed?

In his book Two in a Bed: The Social System of Couple Bed Sharing, Paul Rosenblatt, a professor of sociology at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, describes how many couples believe that the time spent in bed is crucial to their relationship. It's a place for conversation, patching up disagreements, intimacy, and pleasure. Most couples agreed that they would get a better night's sleep in separate beds; however, they were hesitant to do so because sharing a bed gave them a sense of closeness and security. For many couples, the time spend together in bed is the only quality time they have between work, kids, and other daily activities.

Are there benefits to sleeping in separate beds?

The truth is that there are pluses to sleeping in your own bed. Even though some couples may worry that sleeping in separate bed (or even rooms) will hurt their intimacy, some experts believe sleeping apart can aide sexual attraction or even save a marriage. A British study found that couples slept more soundly when sleeping apart from each other. Researchers at University of Brighton and Loughborough University concluded that while the psychological aspects of sleeping together are great, the physiological benefits of sleeping alone cannot be denied. Aside from the fact that a more rested body is one with more sex drive, there may be something to asking the question, "Your room or mine?"

So there a benefits to both sides, what do we do?

If your partner's sleep habits are a real cause of sleepless nights and stress for the both of you, an honest and open conversation may be in store. Address the issues you may be having and try to find remedies for them. Here, a few tips on how to deal with nighttime difficulties if sleeping alone is out of the question.

  • The snorer. Probably the most common issue concerning couples at night. What's difficult about this problem is that nothing can tune out the sound of an extreme snorer. Many problems with snoring have to do with a person being overweight. Even losing a modest amount of weight may help. Nasal strips, changing sleep positions, and steam inhalation before bed can also remedy the problem.
  • The untouchable. You like to snuggle and he needs his space. Dr. Rosenblatt says that sleeping habits don't reflect feelings. Just because he can't spoon while he sleeps does not mean he wouldn't like to. Try snuggling while you watch television together, or just before you both nod off.
  • The watcher. So, your partner needs the TV on while they sleep and you need perfect silence. If headphones are out of the question, invest in a noise machine-white noise, sounds of the ocean, et cetera. No on the noise machine? Then try to come to an agreement on shutting the television off at a reasonable time. This way you both win.