Women, alcohol use disorders, and sexuality: an exploration of beliefs

Abstract

Extensive research has been conducted on issues of sexuality for women with Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD). These issues are relevant both to the development of and recovery from AUD. Little of this research has focused on the importance of women's beliefs about sexuality at the time of drinking and during recovery. This study sought to identify these beliefs and to determine their importance in the development of and recovery from AUD. A qualitative research design was used whereby interviews with four women in long-term recovery (3 or more years) were analyzed. It was found that, overall, beliefs about sexuality became more positive during recovery. Women tended to have less sex during recovery and reported that the sex was better than while drinking. Women's relationships with themselves and others improved improved significantly during recovery. It is within the context of these improved relationships that beliefs about sexuality became more positive.