Female Sexuality in a University Population: An Observational Study
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Abstract
Background: Sexuality is a fundamental dimension of women’s health and quality of life. Despite its importance, published evidence on the prevalence and nature of sexual difficulties in the Portuguese female population remains limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sexual difficulties, their comorbidity, and the level of associated sexual distress.
Methods: This observational, cross-sectional, descriptive study enrolled 60 female students from the University of the Algarve aged 18–25 years. Participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire together with three validated instruments: the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Female Sexual Distress Scale–Revised (FSDS-R), and the Sexual Satisfaction Scale for Women (SSS-W). Descriptive analysis of prevalence and comorbidity of sexual difficulties was performed.
Results: At least one sexual difficulty was identified in 75% of participants. Lack of sexual desire/interest was the most prevalent difficulty (42%), followed by difficulty achieving orgasm (37%), dyspareunia (22%), lubrication difficulties (10%), and arousal difficulties (7%). Regarding sexual satisfaction, 27% of participants reported dissatisfaction with their current sex life, while 7% reported distress attributable to their sexual difficulties.
Conclusions: Sexual difficulties are highly prevalent in this cohort of young, highly educated women, although only a minority report associated sexual distress. These findings underscore the importance of promoting sexual health information and open discussion, specifically targeting this age group.
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