You searched for polyamory - Everyday Feminism

Though polyamory has become (slightly) more mainstream-most articles and self-help books focus on abled and neurotypical folks. As someone who’s disabled and non-monogamous, it’s hard for me to relate to most of them. So many of the things me and my partner(s) have to navigate are often ignored or glossed over. Mainstream polyamory discourse generally…

So you’ve been reading about polyamory and have decided it’s something you want to try. Or maybe you’re still thinking about it, but don’t have a clear sense of where you’d even begin. It can take some time to figure out how polyamory works best in your life. Here are a few tips, guidelines, and things to consider for people just starting out in the poly world.

In our society, monogamous relationships are the norm – but they’re not the only option. Learn the truth about what polyamory means, and why it’s not like common myths say.

Is polyamory a relationship option that’s unavailable to most black people? Here’s how this author has faced stigma as both a polyamorous person and a black woman.

These are super common – even among people who “get” polyamory in theory. If you’re new to polyamory, this can help you avoid some hurtful mistakes.

An illustration of one person trying to explain something, while two others look frustrated and confused

Hopefully you’ll have more time to prepare for this conversation than this author’s metamour did! And you’ll probably need answers for these tough questions.

She’s got a great message about monogamy, too. Does this change or support anything you already knew or thought about polyamory?

Person with one hand to their lips, signaling "shhh," and one hand in front of them, signaling "stop."

These responses to non-monogamy are super common – even from people who don’t mean to be judgmental. Do any of them cover your response to polyamory?

Do you know about the Manic Pixie Dream Girl trope? When this sexist idea shows up in polyamorous relationships, the result can be toxic, and here’s how.

Three people taking a selfie together in the sun

The more questions this author gets about polyamory, the more she’s realized that society tells us a lot of heteronormative lies about love – and polyamorous folks aren’t the only ones who get mistreated as a result. Here’s the affirming truth.

Red heart on white wood background

Have you internalized society’s judgments against polyamory and other forms of non-monogamy? It can be really painful. But every polyamorous person deserves to get these uplifting affirmations.

Figuring out if you’re polyamorous isn’t easy when society conditions us to believe that having multiple partners is abnormal or deviant. But your feelings are valid, and these tips will help you sort them out.

Silhoutte of a sad person sitting on a bed

Polyamory is as healthy a relationship style as any other – but it offers unique challenges when a partner is abusive. It’s time to talk about it.

“Why isn’t one person enough?” People have a lot of questions about polyamory. In this video, polyamorous people share some answers, breaking down misconceptions and giving advice on starting and sustaining non-monogamous relationships. So if you’re a polyamorous person or you wonder what it’s like to be one, enjoy this light-hearted clip on being true to who you are.

Young person talking to their parent

Figuring how to tell your parents you’re polyamorous can be tricky, but for many polyamorous people, it’s an important step. If you’re considering this step, here are some helpful things to keep in mind.

So you’ve figured out that you’re polyamorous. Awesome! But you’re also currently in a monogamous relationship. Uh-oh. Entering into a polyamorous relationship from a previously monogamous one can take work – but not only is it not impossible. It also can lead to healthier, more fulfilling relationships! Check out this comic to learn how to talk to your partner about your polyamory.

A person leaning against a wall with their arms crossed, in thought

Know anyone so fed up with the lack of ethics in non-monogamy that they’ve given it up? This author’s tempted to be one of them. Let’s unpack the assumptions that can make this community an unethical place to be.

I was raised to believe that I should only be with one person. Anything else wasn’t moral. But when you don’t know that it’s your birthright to love and express your emotions in whatever way your heart desires, how is one supposed to discover that there are infinite choices? I stumbled across the world of polyamory five years ago, and it has forever altered the way I see my connection with others.

Person looking down, feeling sad and left out

Do you believe any of the stereotypes about people who are bisexual and polyamorous? They’re far too common – and if you’re in a polyamorous community, here’s how you can help do something about it.

Aromantic people know that society’s norms for romantic relationships don’t apply to everyone. But these norms affect all of us, whether we’re romantic or not, and here’s how they’re hurting us.