Background: Gaming Disorder (GD) is recognized by the WHO as a behavioral addiction, yet research remains predominantly men-centric. This study explores the experiences of women gamers, their perceptions of GD, and the barriers women face in accessing care.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven participants identifying as women (six cisgender women and one transgender woman) aged 21-26 years old, in France and Switzerland. Inductive reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify women's experiences of gaming behavior, stigma, and help-seeking.

Results: Participants reported diverse gaming behaviors, with preferences for narrative-driven games (e.g., RPG, simulations). Stigma, lack of self-awareness, limited self-recognition of problematic gaming, and broader societal misconceptions emerged as significant barriers to recognising GD as a potential clinical issue warranting help-seeking. None had sought professional care for GD, citing gendered stereotypes and diagnostic biases as key deterrents.

Conclusions: The study highlights the need for women-centred diagnostic tools, clinical approaches, targeted awareness campaigns, and flexible support systems for women with GD. Future research should prioritize larger, diverse samples and intersectional approaches.