The Impact of Premarital Sexual Abstinence on Sexual Experiences Post-Marriage: A Qualitative Review Among African-American Couples.

Sexual abstinence links to informed decision-making, healthier relationships, and stable marriages. However, our understanding of those who remain sexually abstinent until marriage is limited, especially regarding sexual expectations and satisfaction post-marriage. Additionally, there is a lack of research on sexual abstinence among African-Americans, a group facing unique relational disparities. This study investigated the perceived impact of premarital sexual abstinence on the sexual experiences of married African-American couples-a qualitative phenomenological study involving semi-structured interviews with 38 couples (N = 76). Thematic analysis revealed a primary theme: a disconnect between premarital sexual expectations and post-marital experiences, comprising five areas: (1) sexual expectations after abstinence, (2) the reality of their sexual experiences, (3) contributors to initial sexual challenges, (4) strategies to address challenges, and (5) their overall perception of how abstinence affected their sex life once married. Participants noted that while initial expectations weren't met, sexual quality and satisfaction improved over time. This study offers the first detailed insights into premarital sexual abstinence and its impact on post-marriage sexual experiences within an African-American sample. The findings emphasize implications for research, practice, and clergy that support couples in this premarital choice.