Marital sexual autonomy and pleasure among Palestinian women: Negotiating religion, culture, and emotional wellbeing

This study investigates married Palestinian women’s experiences of sexual rights, autonomy, and pleasure, emphasizing the interplay of religion, culture, and marital communication. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, 20 women from urban, rural, and refugee camp settings were interviewed. Findings reveal that women perceive sexual rights and pleasure in Islam as mutually reciprocal, yet cultural norms and social expectations often constrain the enactment of sexual autonomy and enjoyment. Religious guidance serves as both empowerment and a site of negotiation, helping women interpret their rights and navigate tension with local customs. Emotional wellbeing, trust, privacy, and knowledge of sexual rights emerged as critical enablers of sexual decision-making and pleasurable experiences. The study underscores the importance of culturally and religiously sensitive education, counseling, and marital support to foster sexual autonomy and pleasure, contributing to relational equity and wellbeing in Palestinian marital contexts.