A qualitative study of sexual health education among Iranian engaged couples

Zahra Bostani Khalesi, Masoumeh Simbar, Seyed Ali Azin

1. Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery,
Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
2. Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery,
Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences,
Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.
3. Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute (ACECR), Tehran, Iran.

Abstract:
Background:Sexual health education for Iranian engaged couples is always ignored in the premarital education program.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the necessity of sexual health education for Iranian engaged couples.

Materials and methods: This qualitative study was conducted in Rasht, Iran. The studied sample consisted of 38 engaged men and women; and also 9 health experts and policymakers. We used interview guides to collect data. The data was analyzed through content analysis method.

Results: Analyzing participants’ perspectives revealed six themes including: (1) socio-cultural changes, (2) emerging social pathologies, (3) inadequate sexual knowledge; (4) challenges in providing sexual health services, (5) individual consequences and (6) social consequences.

Conclusion:Most participants emphasized the necessity of sexual health education not only because of medical concerns, but also from the perspective of social issues. Providing these services should be considered a priority.
Keywords: Sexual health, health education, qualitative study, Iran