Health of sexual minority couples during their marriage transition

Sexual minority couples' health during the transition to marriage

NIH-funded research University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) · NIH-10980561

This study is looking at how getting married affects the health and relationships of same-sex couples, especially during the first two years, to better understand their experiences and challenges.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Denver (Colorado Seminary) NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Denver, United States)
Project IDNIH-10980561 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the health experiences of sexual and gender minority couples as they transition into marriage, a significant life event that has only recently become legally recognized in the U.S. The study will involve both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to assess changes in mental and physical health, relationship dynamics, and the impact of minority stress over the first two years of marriage. By focusing on a diverse group of couples, the research aims to understand how marriage affects health outcomes and the role of relationship factors in this process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are sexual and gender minority couples who have recently married or are planning to marry.

Not a fit: Patients who are not part of sexual or gender minority groups may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes and support strategies for sexual minority couples navigating the transition to marriage.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that marriage can have positive health benefits for couples, but this specific focus on sexual minority couples is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Denver, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.