(070) Addressing Sexual Distress in Gynecological Conditions: Development of a Digital Intervention

Abstract Introduction Sexual distress is highly prevalent among individuals affected by gynecological conditions, including endometriosis, vulvodynia, lichen sclerosus, and breast cancer, and is associated with profound psychosocial consequences and reduced quality of life. Despite its clinical relevance, sexual distress remains largely overlooked in routine healthcare, leaving affected individuals with few options for support. Digital interventions provide advantages, including accessibility, anonymity, and scalability. They represent a promising approach to addressing these unmet needs, yet evidence-based solutions specifically tailored to this population remain, to the best of our knowledge, very limited. Objective This qualitative study aimed to investigate the challenges and care needs related to sexual distress in individuals with gynecological conditions and to develop a tailored, user-centered digital intervention through an iterative process. Methods This three-phase study followed a sequential qualitative design. In Phase 1, Free-List interviews (n = 20) with affected individuals identified key challenges and care needs related to sexual distress. Insights informed the development of an app-based digital sex therapy. In Phase 2, a prototype was tested in Think-Aloud interviews (n = 16) with patients and health care providers, following a user-centered, iterative approach. Phase 3 triangulated findings from the previous phases through three focus groups with patients and health care providers. Qualitative content analysis was applied to user feedback on content, usability, and perceived impact. Results Phase 1 revealed major unmet needs including insufficient information, lack of specialized care, and experiences of not being taken seriously. Participants emphasized the importance of validation, and easily accessible support. In Phase 2, the prototype was viewed as a promising tool. Participants appreciated its empathetic tone, multimedia-based delivery, and relevance to their lived experiences. Constructive feedback pointed to areas for improvement such as reducing jargon, avoiding information overload, and enhancing personalization and trauma sensitivity. Phase 3 confirmed these themes. Conclusions This study demonstrates a user-informed process for developing a digital intervention to address sexual distress in gynecological conditions. By highlighting unmet needs and integrating patient and provider perspectives, it provides a strong foundation for scalable and personalized care solutions. The findings underscore the importance of integrating sexual health into gynecological care and lay the groundwork for subsequent feasibility testing and clinical evaluation. Disclosure No.