Our aim was to investigate if and how women diagnosed with a sexual dysfunction (SD) differ from women without a diagnosis but with sexual problems.

Following the most recent recommendations on womenʼs SDs, from the 2nd International Consultation on Sexual Medicine, we focused particularly on descriptors relating to contextual factors and degree of distress associated. We also investigated the role of relational and psychological factors.

Participants were 40 women with SD and 40 women from the community sample (matching ages with the clinical group) scoring lower than the cut-off score in FSFI but without a diagnosis of SD neither searching for clinical help.

Questionnaires assessed sexual functioning, satisfaction and activity; self-report of sexual problems and associated distress; psychopathology and medical conditions; relationship satisfaction, sexual beliefs, sexual self-esteem, affect and general well-being.

We found that women with SD scored significantly lower on sexual satisfaction, desire, arousal and orgasm but not on lubrication or pain. Associated with the self-reported sexual problem, they presented a higher level of personal distress, lifeʼs interference and distress perceived in partner. However, no differences were found between the two groups for relationship status.

Women with SD referred more health problems and use of medication. Psychopathology didn’t discriminate the groups.

Women with sexual problems (but without a clinical diagnosis) scored significantly higher on sexual self-esteem, satisfaction, pleasure and positive emotions during sexual activity.

Findings will be discussed addressing recent classification proposals for SD and diagnostic criteria such as degree of distress and interpersonal difficulty.