A Mixed-Method Study of Exploring the Impact of Male Alcohol Dependence on Sexual Functioning and Marital Relationships

J Sex Marital Ther. 2025 May 6:1-18. doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2025.2488282. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Male alcohol dependence often leads to sexual dysfunction and disrupted marital relationships. This study aims to assess prevalence and pattern of sexual dysfunction amongst married male patients with alcohol dependence and influence of alcohol on their lives by exploring wives’ perceptions. 100 married male patients with alcohol dependence and their wives (n = 70) were included. Male patients were interviewed to assess alcohol dependence severity, mental health, sexual functioning, and marital satisfaction with the help of standardized questionnaires. Wives’ in-person interviews using a structured interview guide were conducted to explore their opinion about their husband’s alcohol use and challenges they faced. According to the male patient’s interview, the prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 88%, with premature ejaculation (60%) and erectile dysfunction (57%) being most common. Among all male patients, 19% had other mental health conditions and 50% experienced significant marital distress in their life, and severity of alcohol dependence was significantly associated with lower marital satisfaction. On exploring wives lived experiences, they reported significant interpersonal challenges like domestic violence and sexual life dissatisfaction due to their husbands’ alcohol use and impact on children also. Alcohol dependence leads to high rates of sexual dysfunction and significant marital distress among spouses.

PMID:40327036 | DOI:10.1080/0092623X.2025.2488282