TeenHealthFX - Answers - Normal That His Parents Had Sex Only To Have Kids?

Sexuality & Sexual Health: Miscellaneous / Question
Published: October 29, 2003

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I was talking with my boyfriend one day and he told me that his parents have only had sex a few times ever and the only reason they ever had sex was to have kids and for no other reason. I was shocked. First of all of the fact that they actually told him that, second that they rarely ever had sex. Is that normal? Plus, now I'm beginning to wonder if my boyfriend is going to have the same opinion... he's 20 and is a virgin, which I respect, but that all bothers me a little bit.

Signed: Normal That His Parents Had Sex Only To Have Kids?

Dear Normal That His Parents Had Sex Only To Have Kids?,

While it is unusual for a married couple to only have sex in order to have children, it's difficult for us to define what "normal" sexual behavior is. People engage in such a broad range of sexual behaviors, how can anyone decide what is "normal?" The average married couple in the U.S. has sex around once a week, but there are plenty of couples that have sex less frequently and some who have it more often.

In addition, it is possible that your boyfriend's parents were not being honest with him. Perhaps they are uncomfortable being honest about their sex life with their son. You also have to consider that his parent's religious beliefs may have a strong influence over their sexuality.

Regardless, his parents' feelings about sex are not as important as his own. There is only one way you can find out if he feels sex is something people should only do for procreation: ask him.

Signed: TeenHealthFX