Identifying Factors Related to Unconsummated Marriage: A Systematic Review

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Background & Aim: Marriage is the most significant bond that occurs between two individuals, and after marriage, sexual intercourse and intimacy are naturally and mutually expected from each couple.In some cases, couples are unable to engage in complete sexual relations, or in other words, vaginal intercourse, a condition defined as an "unconsummated marriage."The aim of this study was to determine the factors associated with unconsummated marriage through a systematic review of existing research.Materials & Methods: The present study employed a systematic review of previous data and included a comprehensive and organized search of existing literature related to the topic in published works in the form of articles and theses in both Persian and English.Relevant keywords were searched in databases such as Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Irandoc, Magiran, and the Scientific Database of Jihad University from 1962 to 2023.In the initial search, 171 English and Persian articles were obtained.Then, using the PRISMA checklist indicators, 27 articles were selected for study and analysis.Relevance to the research objective, having a structured research framework, full-text availability, and publication in reputable journals were among the criteria for including research articles in the review process. Results:The findings from the review indicated that the main factors associated with the formation or exacerbation of unconsummated marriage include sexual dysfunctions, misconceptions, unfamiliarity with sexual issues, performance anxiety, and unreasonable social or cultural pressures and expectations related to marriage.Conclusion: These results emphasize the urgent need to correct individual, social, and cultural misconceptions and emphasize the importance of proper and timely education on sexual issues, particularly in pre-marital counseling.Additionally, they highlight the necessity for immediate action by relevant authorities to reduce this issue.