Associated Factors of Marital Satisfaction in Iranian Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Population-Based Study

Abstract

Background: The increasing prevalence of COVID-19 in Iran has increased the risk for anxiety and stress in families. Due to the significance of the impact of family health on the society’s mental health and the fundamental role of marital relationships, which is an indicator of marital satisfaction, this study was conducted to investigate associated factors of marital satisfaction in Iranian women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This online cross-sectional study was carried out to assess associated factors of marital satisfaction in Iranian women during the COVID-19 pandemic from April 1 to April 20, 2020. The study sample consisted of 317 married women of childbearing age eligible to enter the study. Data were collected using a socio-demographic and obstetric questionnaire, the female sexual function index, the ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale, and the General Health Questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software version 22. Results: A total of 317 married women participated in the study. The average age of the participants was 31.85 ± 6.94 years. Based on the multiple linear regression model, only five variables, including sexual satisfaction (B = 2.414, P < 0.001), physical symptoms (B = 0.245, P = 0.045), anxiety and insomnia (B = -0.319, P = 0.002), social dysfunction (B = 0.265, P = 0.003), and depression (B = -0.441, P < 0.001), could significantly predict marital satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: Sexual satisfaction, physical symptoms, anxiety and insomnia, social dysfunction, and depression can significantly affect marital satisfaction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, planning to identify these factors and provide the appropriate strategy can increase marital satisfaction in times of crisis.