Once you begin engaging in a regular sex life, you naturally start developing a set of preferred techniques-your personal methods to make your partner moan and want more.

But what if your favorite moves actually turn her off?

“We do a poor job of educating men about sexuality,” says Monica Lieser, a licensed marriage and family therapist and co-author of “14 Days of Foreplay.” “Men often feel they must be in control and instinctively know what to do, so they just improvise.”

While improvisation can occasionally work, it often leaves her feeling annoyed.

Curious about how many bedroom faux pas you might be committing? Read on to find out-and discover alternative techniques she’ll crave next time.

Keeping Your Socks On

You might think socks keep your feet warm or that leaving them on adds a certain allure, similar to her wearing heels to bed.

Wrong. It’s a major turn-off. “It’s just not visually appealing,” says Lieser. “You resemble a toddler-there’s no association with sexuality.”

Leaving socks on could imply you’re so focused on your agenda-get in, get off-that you won’t even fully undress. If you like staying partially clothed, leave your pants around your ankles instead, suggests Lieser.

Touching Her Insecure Spots

Every woman has a few areas-often her stomach or thighs-where she feels self-conscious. Consistently drawing attention to these spots won’t ease her discomfort.

“If you focus on this area, even with compliments, it can quickly shut us down,” says DeAnna Lorraine, a dating and relationships coach in Los Angeles.

It can also indicate a lack of creativity: “He seems to think he has no other moves,” Lieser adds.

If you can’t resist, explain why you love that spot. Say: “I was thinking about [some activity involving that body part]. Can we try it? We can stop anytime.”

“That approach is sexy because it includes her,” says Lieser. “It’s a collaborative decision.”

Being Passive During Woman on Top

The woman-on-top position empowers her, but she doesn’t want to feel like she’s with a lifeless partner.

“We’re often unsure of what we’re doing because we’re used to the man taking charge,” says Lorraine. Simply lying still can leave her feeling uncertain.

“It makes a woman self-conscious-she wonders what you’re expecting,” she says.

If you want her to lead, you don’t need to thrust, but make contact: Touch her breasts, caress her back, or hold her butt.

Overusing Generic Pet Names

A few “baby” or “honey” mentions can create a connection, but overusing such terms makes it impersonal.

“It feels like you’re not really with her,” says Lieser.

Use her first name-she’ll enjoy hearing it during passion-or a secret nickname for more intimate moments.

“A specific pet name, like Dimples or Sugar Pants, creates a special bond,” says Lorraine.

Staring During Oral

Though her anatomy may fascinate you, staring during oral isn’t appreciated-it feels creepy.

“A bit of admiration is fine,” says Lorraine. “But don’t focus entirely on it.”

Compliment her or express enjoyment, but avoid gawking.

Being Overly Controlling

While being told what to do can be erotic, there’s a fine line between taking charge and being domineering.

“It’s nice when a man is confident,” says Lieser. “That’s different from just bulldozing someone.”

If you’re trying a new position she’s unfamiliar with, she’s expected to comply. Instead, only suggest actions you’ve both enjoyed before.

Starting with Clitoral Stimulation

To her, starting with clitoral stimulation feels invasive.

“Men assume manual stimulation is necessary for arousal,” says Lieser. “But it’s not arousing to insert a finger prematurely.”

Instead, touch her everywhere but her genitals to build desire and natural lubrication.

Unexpected Dirty Talk

Spouting unexpected explicit phrases can be jarring.

“You’ve prepared mentally, but she hasn’t,” says Lieser. “There needs to be a transition.”

Begin with usual dirty talk, then introduce new ideas: “I have a new idea. Do you want to hear it?”

Focusing Solely on the Clitoris

“Men often focus excessively on the clitoris,” says Lorraine. “But it’s extremely sensitive and doesn’t need constant attention.”

Start by slowly stroking and let her guide you to new moves.

“She might shift your hand if it becomes too sensitive,” Lorraine advises.

Prolonged Sex Sessions

Marathon sessions might not enhance her satisfaction. Instead, they may lead her to mentally wander.

“Men think longer is better,” says Lorraine. “But it’s like a monotonous massage.”

If she stops participating or making noise, it’s time to conclude.