Women's Sexual Health in the Context of Spousal Substance Use Disorder: A Qualitative Study.

PURPOSE: The current qualitative study examined how women with spouses with substance use disorder (SUD) perceive and navigate their sexual health. The study aimed to shed light on the complex interplay among SUD, intimate relationships, and sexual well-being.

METHOD: This research was performed between December 2024 and February 2025 using a phenomenological design. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 women with partners with SUD. Data obtained from interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Findings revealed that living with a partner with SUD has a detrimental impact on women's sexual health in various ways. Interviews identified four over-arching themes and eight subthemes. Primary themes were: Effects of Addiction on Family Life, Violence, Effects of Addiction on Male Sexuality, and Effects of Addiction on Female Sexuality.

CONCLUSION

Living with a partner with SUD threatens women's sexual health and causes multifaceted physical, psychological, and social difficulties. Findings suggest that health care professionals and policymakers should develop holistic support and intervention programs for women with partners with SUD.