Coitus Frequency among Married or Cohabiting Heterosexual Adults: A Survey in French-Canada

SynopsisA total of 212 married or cohabiting French-speaking heterosexual adults in the Montreal area, were surveyed to assess the frequency of their sexual behaviours in 1987. Findings suggest that age and the length of the relationship were key factors on coital rates, which did not seem affected by the type of relationship (marriage or cohabitation), nor by gender, education, parity, religiosity, or church attendance. However, an honeymoon effect was found, the frequency of coitus being significantly higher during the first two years of the relationship. A difference was also noticed between non-manual and manual workers, but it held true only for individuals whose relationship has been lasting between 11 and 20 years.