Is there research showing that couples with kids have lower marital satisfaction than couples without?

Question

And what about sexual satisfaction specifically?

Found this:

Twenge, J. M., Campbell, W. K., & Foster, C. A. (2003). Parenthood and marital satisfaction: A meta-analytic review. Journal of Marriage and the Family, 65, 574-583.

Abstract: This meta-analysis finds that parents report lower marital satisfaction compared to nonparents (d = -.19, r = -.10). There is also a significant negative correlation between marital satisfaction and number of children (d = -.13, r = -.06). The difference in marital satisfaction is most pronounced among mothers of infants (38% of mothers of infants have high marital satisfaction, compared to 62% of childless women). For men, the effect remains similar across ages of children. The effect of parenthood on marital satisfaction is more negative among high socioeconomic groups, younger birth cohorts, and in more recent years. The data suggest that marital satisfaction decreases after the birth of a child due to role conflicts and restriction of freedom.

Gotta love Google.

Answer 1

Its hard to research, the couples with kids have quite and incentive to work out troubles. Sexual satisfaction probably isn't as high, I know we hardly ever have time (its frankly a miracle we have a second child and now a third coming).

Answer 2

I can't imagine that my husband and I would be any happier without our kids. We have three between us and are trying for another. We love our family and our marriage is strong.
As far as the sex...it is still as hot as the first time.....

Answer 3

I can't be sure, but I remember reading and article about that, and if I remember correctly, couples with children are happier. I believe that too. They bring more joy than sorrow. They make your relationship complete.