Women & Pornography: An Analysis based on Sexual Orientation and Age in Spanish Women

Introduction The proactive role of women in sexuality has been socially invisible, especially in regard to pornography use. For this reason, this study aims to explore Spanish women’s sexual experiences regarding viewing, arousal, and discomfort as perceived by different types of pornography and based on the women’s sexual orientation. Methods Between January and March 2019, 2730 Spanish women between 18 and 44 years old (M = 24.16; SD = 6.04) completed a questionnaire about the consumption of heterosexual, gay, and lesbian pornography and the discomfort they felt when they were aroused by this type of material. Regarding their sexual orientation, 78.1% were heterosexual, 15.4% were bisexual, and 6.5% were lesbian. Results In general, more lesbian and bisexual women consume pornography than heterosexual women do. In any case, all of them consume and are aroused by pornographic content based on a sexual orientation that differs from their reported sexual orientation. Women experience discomfort when viewing pornography, regardless of their sexual orientation and the type of content. Particularly, the youngest women are associated with discomfort when viewing heterosexual pornography, although the discomfort of older bisexual women is associated with gay and lesbian pornography. Conclusions Regardless of their reported sexual orientation, women view and feel aroused by different types of pornographic content. In addition, this study reveals their associated discomfort, which could interfere with their sexual health. Policy Implications Sexual health strategies should include a more active role of women in sexuality, as well as a more flexible conception of their sexual orientation to prevent stigmatizing them.