Explaining sexual health education needs of pre-marriage couples: A Qualitative Study

Introduction: Knowledge about sexual health is one of the basic needs of young couples. Knowledge of sexual health is effective on the individual&#۳۹;s health and family stability. However, a comprehensive sexual health education program does not exist in the health care system. The present study aimed to explore the sexual health education needs of engaged couples. Method: This qualitative study was conducted using conventional content analysis. Subjects were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth individual interviews and ۱ focus group discussion, with ۳۸ individuals and ۹ interviews with the key informants. All interviews were recorded and transcribed. The data were analyzed using content analysis method and the MAXQDA software. Results: Through extraction of main codes, the couples’ needs were classified in ۴ main categories of bio-psychological, social-moral, religious-moral, and educational-cultural. The main categories also included several subcategories that were explained with the statements of participants. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that engaged couples require particular knowledge and skills in bio-psychological, social-moral, religious-moral, and educational-cultural dimensions that are ignored in the current premarital educational programs. Therefore, presentation of this study results to health authorities for the implementation of need-based educational programs can increase the effectiveness of premarital education.

Keywords:

Sexual health , Qualitative study , Needs assessment