Analyzing Sexual Health-Related Beliefs among Couples in Marriage Based on the Health Belief Model

Sexual health is the integrity between mind, emotions, and body, and any dis-order leading to discoordination, can be associated with sexual dysfunction. The aim of this study was to investigate the beliefs of couples attending marriage counseling centers toward sexual health based on the health belief model. This cross sectional descriptive study was performed on 400 couples referring to marriage counseling centers of Hamadan recruited with a random sampling meth-od. The participants completed a self-administered questionnaire including demographic characteristics, knowledge and health belief model constructs. Data analysis was performed using SPSS-16 software, by Pearson’s coefficient correlation, independent T-test, and one-way ANOVA. Couples had a moderate knowledge of sexual health. In addition, perceived suscepti-bility and severity of the consequences of unsafe sexual behavior among couples were not sat-isfactory; however, perceived benefits and barriers were reported in a relatively good level. Internet and friends were the most important sources for sexual health information. Promoting knowledge and beliefs toward sexual health by preparing training packages based on the needs of couples and removing obstacles to have normal sexual behav-ior are necessary.