In the Indian cultural context, women have little power within their marriages, particularly in the sexual domain, which reduces their ability to make decisions and negotiate safer sex. This limitation increases vulnerability to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), HIV and unintended pregnancies affect their sexual heath. Marital satisfaction refers to an individual's subjective evaluation of their marriage. It plays a crucial role in the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals. This study aims to examine the impact of sexual agency on marital satisfaction, STD prevention and well- being of married women. It further sought to explore how negotiation of safer sex contributes to sexual agency and marital satisfaction.
A mixed- method, cross-sectional survey will be conducted on 200 married women aged 21-40 years, married for 2-5 years. Purposive sampling will be used to ensure diversity. Data will be collected on sexual agency using the Sexual Assertiveness Scale (SAS), Couples Satisfaction Index (CSI-16), Psychological Well-Being Scales(Ryff) and demographic details. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted to gather insights on negotiation of safer sex, experiences of STDs, and related health practices. Data analysis will be performed using SPSS/AMOS and multiple regression. This study expect that higher sexual agency is positively associated with marital satisfaction, STD prevention, and overall well- being. Negotiation of safe sex is positively correlated with sexual agency and high marital satisfaction.
The study highlights the need for researchers, policymakers and programmers seeking to enhance young married women's sexual communication and to emphasize the importance of providing sex education before marriage. Interventions promoting sexual well-being must deal with negative male perceptions and expectations that perpetuate unhealthy sexual habits and marriage ties.