by Danielle Wright
Married men and women who have only had sex with their spouse have a nearly 45% chance of reporting a very high level of relationship stability in their marriage. In comparison, only 25% of married individuals with 5-9 lifetime sexual partners and only 14% of married individuals with 10 or more lifetime sexual partners report the same level of stability, according to The Wheatley Institute.
Sex before marriage is a controversial topic that has been debated for decades. While some people believe that waiting until marriage is the right choice, others argue that sexual intimacy before marriage is a natural part of a healthy relationship. Here are some facts about sex before marriage that may help shed some light on this topic.
PREVALENCE
According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 75% of Americans have had premarital sex by the age of 20. This statistic suggests that sexual intimacy before marriage is common in modern society and that waiting until marriage is becoming less practiced.
RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION
Research has shown that couples who engage in sexual activity before marriage are more likely to report higher levels of relationship satisfaction. According to a study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family, couples who waited until marriage to have sex reported lower levels of sexual satisfaction and communication compared to couples who had sex before marriage.
Related articles: How to Reinvigorate Your Marriage
Related articles: Is Marriage Counseling Worth It?
STI TRANSMISSION
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be transmitted through sexual activity, including intercourse, oral sex, and anal sex. According to the CDC, young adults between the ages of 15 and 24 account for nearly half of all new STI infections in the United States. Engaging in sexual activity before marriage can increase the risk of STI transmission, making it important to use protection and get tested regularly.
EMOTIONAL ATTACHMENT
Engaging in sexual activity before marriage can lead to emotional attachment and bonding with a partner. This can be both positive and negative, depending on the individual and the relationship. While some people may feel closer and more connected to their partner after having sex, others may feel used or regretful.
RELIGIOUS BELIEFS
Many religious traditions promote abstinence until marriage, citing the value of sexual purity and the importance of waiting until a committed relationship is established. However, not all individuals adhere to these beliefs, and some may choose to engage in sexual activity before marriage despite religious teachings.
SOCIETAL NORMS
Societal norms and cultural values can influence attitudes towards sex before marriage. In some cultures, premarital sex is taboo and frowned upon, while in others, it is seen as a natural part of dating and relationships. These cultural differences can contribute to varying attitudes and beliefs about sexual intimacy before marriage.
Related articles: Marriage Counseling When You Want a Divorce
Related articles: Why Men Don't Want to Get Married Anymore
LEGAL IMPLICATIONS
In some countries and jurisdictions, engaging in sexual activity before marriage can have legal implications. For example, in some countries, premarital sex is illegal and can result in criminal charges and imprisonment. It is important to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding sexual activity before making any decisions.
PERSONAL BELIEFS
Ultimately, the decision to engage in sexual activity before marriage is a personal one that depends on individual beliefs and values. Some people may choose to wait until marriage for religious or personal reasons, while others may feel comfortable engaging in sexual activity before marriage as long as it is safe and consensual.
More Stats:
Nearly 1 in 5 married men and women who have only had sex with their spouse report that they are “very satisfied” with multiple aspects of their sexual relationship in their marriage, compared to 1 in 10 married men and women who are “highly sexually experienced” and have 10+ lifetime sexual partners before marriage.
Almost 80% of married individuals who were sexually inexperienced before marriage report the highest level of emotional closeness in their marriage, more than 20% higher than individuals who have had multiple lifetime sexual partners before marriage.
In conclusion, the decision to engage in sexual activity before marriage is a personal one that should be made with careful consideration of individual beliefs and values. While sexual intimacy before marriage is becoming more common in modern society, it is important to take precautions to protect oneself from STIs and unintended pregnancy. Ultimately, the most important factor is communication and mutual respect between partners, regardless of whether or not they choose to engage in sexual activity before marriage.