Sexual Functioning in a Non-Clinical Sample of Partnered Lesbians

Abstract

One-hundred women involved in a primary lesbian relationship completed a measure investigating sexual difficulties with various aspects of sex with their current partner. Results were compared to previous research on both heterosexual and gay couples. Reported frequency of sexual activity and levels of sexual satisfaction were equivalent to those of heterosexual and gay couples. This sample also reported fewer and different types of sexual problems than did heterosexual women. Analyses suggest that the sexual life of lesbians is more robust than often reported. Discussed are relational dynamics, possibly protective of lesbian sexual relationships, as well as clinical implications of re-assessing the nature and importance of sex to lesbian couples.