Relationship Expert Explains How Long You Should Wait Before Sleeping With Someone

A relationship expert has shared his advice on how long you should hold off before sleeping with someone if you're hoping for a long-lasting connection.

In today's world, dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge have become the go-to way for people to meet new partners. After a few exchanges on the app, the next step is usually meeting in person.

Now, you might feel an instant spark with someone and be tempted to take things to the next level right away. But Jacob Lucas, a dating coach with years of experience, advises singles to slow down and not rush into intimacy too quickly.

A dating expert has revealed how long you should wait to sleep with someone Getty Stock

Before you even get to that stage, though, the first date itself needs to go well.

With that in mind, speaking on behalf of FruitySlots.com, Jacob shared his thoughts on topics that should be avoided on a first date to keep things smooth and enjoyable.

"Politics is a touchy subject," he pointed out. "You probably shouldn't talk about this on a first date — it can get too heated."

He also warned: "Second, don't talk about your ex, people aren't on a first date with you because they want to hear about your ex."

"It also suggests you might not be over them either."

So, assuming you dodge those conversational landmines and the date goes really well, does that mean you should take things to the next level? According to Jacob, the answer is no.

Jacob Lucas is a content creator and dating coach @jacoblucas101/Instagram

Instead, he recommends following the "three-date rule."

"Sleeping with someone on the first date can sometimes put you in a tricky situation," the dating coach, who has gained over 100,000 followers on Instagram, explained.

"If you have a really strong connection with someone on the second date, then it could go either way. The third date is quite traditional."

In other words, patience is key.

That being said, Jacob also pointed out that waiting too long to be intimate can sometimes create its own set of problems.

It could put unnecessary pressure on the moment when it finally happens, or even result in one person feeling like the other has placed them in the "friend zone."

Alongside this advice, he also shared some red flags to look out for when swiping through dating profiles.

According to Tawkify Matchmaking, more than 13 percent of people who use dating apps end up engaged or married to someone they met online—so if you’re feeling discouraged, don't lose hope just yet!

Jacob shared what red flags to look out for on dating apps Getty Stock

But with millions of people on these platforms, how do you spot a real connection? Jacob listed some common dating profile mistakes that might signal trouble.

One of the biggest red flags? "When they don't put what they're looking for [on an app]; a person often does this so they can tailor the situation to whoever they're talking to and make out like they want the same thing, this is the most common one."

Another warning sign is when someone’s photos are overly edited or filtered.

"A lot of people do this," he noted. "Then they meet and it's obvious they don't look the same, and it's sort of semi-catfishing."

He also advised against profiles that only feature group photos, guys posting topless mirror selfies, or profiles without a bio.

According to him, the lack of a bio could indicate that the person isn’t really invested in meeting someone and isn’t willing to put in the effort.

So, if you're navigating the world of modern dating, take notes—and may the odds be ever in your favor!