Violence against women is a complex and multifaceted social phenomenon that manifests in various forms, including physical, psychological, moral, economic, and sexual violence. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives. However, the understanding of violence in society remains largely limited to physical and sexual forms, often overlooking the impact of “silent” violence rooted in gender inequality1. The normalization of misogyny, inequality, and oppression contributes to many women not recognizing themselves as victims of violence. Furthermore, it is important to emphasize that these manifestations have significant repercussions on women’s self-esteem and mental health, affecting their sexual quality of life. This study aims to describe the occurrence of reported violence during the initial consultations of women participating in a research study on Female Sexual Dysfunctions.

This is a descriptive case study with a qualitative approach. The study included women aged 18 to 59 years who completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), a validated instrument for assessing female sexual function. A cutoff score of 26 was adopted, with lower scores indicating sexual dysfunction. Participants with other pelvic floor disorders, suspected diagnoses of psychiatric conditions, or current hormone use were excluded. The initial assessment consisted of a semi-structured interview exploring the following domains: sexual education and sexual quality of life; relationship with the family of origin, both currently and throughout development; affective and sexual relationships; social interactions and leisure; academic and professional life; self-esteem; self-concept; self-care; and overall clinical health. The reports obtained during the first interview were analyzed and categorized based on narratives of violence identified in participants accounts, as follows: violence perpetrated by the family of origin (both current and throughout development), violence perpetrated by an intimate partner, and urban violence. Within these categories, the types of violence reported were further classified (economic, sexual, psychological, physical and moral). All participants provided written informed consent prior to participation.

Twenty-eight women were interviewed (mean age: 33.4 ± 7.46 years). All participants (n = 28) reported experiences indicative of at least one form of violence.

Exposure to violence may contribute to beliefs of unworthiness, lack of love and helplessness, affecting self-esteem, self-efficacy and overall well-being. These factors can negatively influence sexual functioning and quality of sexual life.2

Structural gender inequality contributes to the normalization and invisibility of violence against women. Health professionals should remain attentive to subtle indicators of violence during clinical assessment. Further studies investigating the relationship between the frequency and severity of violence and female sexual dysfunction may contribute to improving women’s health care and informing public health policies.

Vigano, S. de M. M., & Laffin, M. H. L. F. (2019). Mulheres, políticas públicas e combate à violência de gênero. História (São Paulo), 38. https://doi.org/10.1590/1980-4369e2019054