242: Overcoming religious sexual shame with Natasha Helfer

Join host Jessa Zimmerman on the Better Sex podcast as she converses with Dr. Ashley Staats about the challenges of maintaining intimacy after the birth of a child, particularly the first baby. The discussion dives into common myths, like the six-week readiness period, and details the emotional and physical complexities that couples face. They explore how to foster communication, manage expectations, and the significance of mutual support and understanding during this transformative life stage. The episode is packed with personal stories, expert advice, and practical strategies to help couples sustain a healthy intimate relationship post-childbirth.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:45 Guest Introduction: Ashley Staats on Sex After Birth01:08 The Myth of the Six-Week Window01:32 Ashley Staats's Journey into Sex Therapy03:10 Challenges of Sex After First Baby04:34 Impact of Birth Experience on Intimacy09:27 Role Changes and Communication Post-Baby13:55 Maintaining Intimacy and Connection26:00 Encouragement and Seeking Help29:34 Conclusion and ResourcesWant my special podcast collections?https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/collectionsBio:After years of dedicated work in private practice, Ashley Blu Staats, PhD and Certified Sex Therapist, recognized a growing need for high-quality sex therapy education and training. This realization led her to establish TalkSex Institute, a place where aspiring sex therapists can receive comprehensive, expert-level education to make a real difference in the lives of their clients.At TalkSex Institute, we're committed to providing top-tier education that positively impacts the field of sex therapy and mental health counseling at large.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman speaks with Dr. Saida Désilets about women's sexual pleasure and the idea of sexual sovereignty. Dr. Désilets shares her personal journey starting from childhood, discussing the impacts of trauma, the cultural stigmas around female pleasure, and the importance of creating a safe space within one's own body. They delve into the physiological benefits of pleasure, breathing techniques, and practices to enhance sensual and sexual wellbeing. Listeners are provided with actionable tips to connect more deeply with their bodies and embrace their own sexual sovereignty.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:47 Interview with Dr. Saida Désilets01:32 Understanding Women's Sexual Pleasure03:20 The Impact of Trauma on Sexuality10:29 Exploring Sexual Sovereignty27:58 Practical Tips for Connecting with Your Body35:39 Conclusion and ResourcesWant Jessa's resources for either the higher or lower desire partner? https://www.desirediscrepancy.comBio:Dr. Saida Désilets wants to live in a world filled with audacious, sexually sovereign people, living life on their own terms. As a TEDx speaker, researcher, counter-culture creatrix, body-philosopher, and author, her work has touched the lives of millions globally. Dr. Saida's innovative approach to PsychoSexuality, desire, and pleasure invites both the public and professionals to better understand the importance of accessing their erotic genius. Her medically-endorsed method integrates somatic awareness, neural and cellular re-patterning and robust reframes of sensuality and sex which all work in harmony to support the erotic individuation process. This work is an essential part of a medical protocol to support sexual optimization as well as part of the BrainTap App. When not researching or creating transformational programs, Dr. Saida enjoys leading Wilderness Safaris in South Africa and swimming in the Aegean Sea.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode, the host talks with Michael Crocker, Sean Peknic, and Ari Lewis from the Sexuality Attachment and Trauma Project (SAT Project) about issues related to shame, sex, and addiction. The discussion begins with introductions, highlighting their roles and the objectives of the SAT Project. The conversation delves into how they prefer the term 'out of control sexual behavior' over 'sex addiction,' focusing on promoting healthy relationships with one's sexuality rather than advocating for sobriety. They explore the impact of shame on individuals' sexual behaviors, the importance of addressing attachment trauma, and the role of curiosity in therapy. The episode also discusses societal impacts on sexual behavior, the influence of technology, and the nuances in gender responses to sexual issues. Finally, they touch on how partnerships often influence individuals seeking help and emphasize a de-shaming, harm-reduction approach that treats people, not problems.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions01:48 Understanding Out of Control Sexual Behavior13:03 The Role of Shame in Sexual Behavior20:42 Exploring the Cycle of Shame and Sexual Behavior25:36 Impact of Background and Upbringing28:26 Understanding Shame and Neglect in Sexual Behavior29:23 Empathy and Solutions for Shame-Driven Behaviors30:27 Exploring Definitions of Shame and Addiction31:11 Cultural and Religious Influences on Sexuality33:54 The Role of Technology in Sexual Behavior40:17 Fantasy vs. Behavior: Navigating Sexual Interests44:10 Gender Differences in Sexual Behavior50:13 Attachment Styles and Sexual Behavior52:21 Couples Therapy and Sexual Behavior56:40 Conclusion and Contact InformationWant to work with Jessa? https://www.intimacywithease.comBios:Michael Crocker, DSW, LCSW, MA As Founder and Clinical Director of the Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project, Michael is a passionate advocate for shame reduction when treating out-of-control sexual behavior. At The SAT Project, they don’t judge or pathologize the sexual behavior of patients. His extensive research in childhood trauma informs his work with clients, as he has seen firsthand how emotional neglect impacts sexual behavior and relationships in adulthood. Trauma robs us of choice.Michael helps clients discover (or, sometimes, rediscover) their connection to joy, play, and intimacy. Shaun Peknic, MSW, MA Psychology Shaun is a therapist and the SAT Project’s Director responsible for client intake, staffing, operations, and educational programs for clinicians. He wears many hats and enjoys them all. For twenty years, Shaun explored the human condition onstage as a theatre director, developing work about queer identity, family trauma, and the subconscious. Now, he supports clients as they tell their own stories offstage. Learning to communicate needs effectively is essential in all partnerships. Shaun brings a deep knowledge of storytelling, communication, and relationship-building into work with individuals, couples, groups, and creative teams.Ari Lewis, M.A.P.P., M.A., Ed.M., LMHC, is a licensed psychotherapist in NYC; an associate at the Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project; and an adjunct professor of social work at Touro University. He earned a Master of Applied Positive Psychology (M.A.P.P.) studying positive sexuality at the University of Pennsylvania, and he earned two master's degrees in mental health counseling at Columbia University, where he also earned an Advanced Certificate in Sexuality, Women, and Gender focused on consensual non-monogamy. Ari has a chapter on treating compulsive sexual behavior coming out in the Routledge Handbook of Positive Sexuality, and his essay on distinguishing consensual non-monogamy from compulsive sexual behavior will be featured as part of the 2nd edition to Kathy Labriola's book, Love in Abundance. Ari has trained for over three years on working with compulsive sexual behavior under Dr. Michael M. Crocker, DSW, founder of the Sexuality, Attachment, and Trauma Project in New York City.play assessment https://thesatproject.typeform.com/to/Sd2CbXuCWant to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, Jessa Zimmerman interviews Dr. Molly Maloof, a physician who explores the significant impact of relationships on health and longevity. Dr. Maloof delves into the connection between human relationships and overall well-being, highlighting the innovative Adamo method she developed to enhance passion, connection, and sexual satisfaction among couples. The discussion covers various topics, from the basics of energy metabolism to the science of love, trauma-informed sex therapy, and the promising future of AI in medicine. The episode offers listeners valuable insights into how healthy relationships and sexual health contribute to living a longer, happier life.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:48 Interview with Dr. Molly Maloof02:27 The Importance of Relationships for Longevity03:34 Energy Metabolism and Human Connection05:49 Adamo: Enhancing Sexual Relationships08:04 Sexual Satisfaction and Overcoming Dysfunction18:11 The Adamo Method Explained26:12 Trauma-Informed Sexual Healing30:24 Future Trends in Sexual Health32:01 Conclusion and Contact InformationWant to take the quiz - How big a problem is my sex life? https://www.sexlifequiz.comBioDr. Molly is a pioneering force in healthspan extension and longevity medicine. Her expertise spans personalized medicine, digital health technologies, biofeedback-assisted lifestyle interventions, and scientifically-based wellness products and services. Her groundbreaking book, "The Spark Factor," is the first biohacking book for women.As the founder and CEO of Adamo Bioscience, Molly is also at the forefront of bringing modern sex education to couples with a groundbreaking intimacy program developed through a study of the science of love. The Adamo Method is a program designed for couples looking to optimize and improve their sexual and relational function. Designed with top experts in the fields of medicine, psychology, and somatic sexuality, the program is a comprehensive and enjoyable intimacy education for modern adults. In 2024, Adamo ran an IRB-approved study on love, intimacy and sexual function in long-term relationships and observed the efficacy of The Adamo Method. Preliminary results showed significant statistical improvement in sexual satisfaction, wellbeing and communication and improvements in love, intimacy and passion. Results will be published in late 2024.Follow Dr. Molly on Instagram:@Drmolly.co@LivingAdamomy coupon code: JESSA10www.livingadamo.comwww.drmolly.coWant to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman engages in a detailed discussion with Anna Rahe about fascia, a system of connective tissues in the body. They explore how fascia impacts sexual health, pain, pleasure, flexibility, and overall bodily function. Rae shares insights from her personal journey of overcoming severe health issues through understanding and working with her fascia. Listeners learn about the relationship between fascia and various body systems, the importance of movement and hydration for fascia health, and practical strategies to improve fascia function. The episode also includes a demonstration of exercises beneficial for pelvic floor health and enhancing sexual pleasure.00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast00:47 Understanding Fascia with Anna Rahe01:38 Anna Rahe's Personal Journey with Fascia04:55 What is Fascia?07:51 The Importance of Fascia in Overall Health09:49 Maintaining Healthy Fascia16:02 Fascia and Movement Practices20:47 Fascia's Role in Sexual Health23:28 The Pelvic Floor and Diaphragm Connection24:45 Understanding Pain and Fascia25:42 The Insula and Fascia's Role in Sensory Processing27:24 Fascia's Impact on Sexual Health34:50 Practical Exercises for Fascia Health39:07 Integrating Fascia Health into Daily Life41:14 Resources and Closing RemarksInterested in resources on desire discrepancy? https://www.desirediscrepancy.comBio:For the past 25+ years, Anna Rahe has delved deep into a liberating and empowering relationship with fascia so that as many people as possible can invest in their health, restore their vitality, and heal themselves with the proprietary tools she has created. As the founder, CEO and educator of GST Body, Anna has spoken about holistic body care through fascia around the world, partnered with top athletes, surgeons, physicians and celebrities, and been featured in various publications, from Shape to Elle, Net-a-Porter to The Wall Street Journal.Link for exercise demo videohttps://gstvitalifestudio.com/checkout/new?o=194964Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman talks with Reverend Beverly Dale, who discusses her journey in helping people heal from sex-negative teachings in religion. They explore how sexuality and spirituality intersect, the sexual wounds caused by rigid religious structures, and the path towards embracing one's authentic sexual self.00:00 Introduction00:45 Guest Introduction and Topic Overview02:24 Reverend Beverly Dale's Background02:49 The Church's Role in Sexual Shame03:17 Understanding Sexual Wounding03:24 Intersection of Faith and Healing03:43 Analyzing Structural Issues10:25 Sexual Wounds in Society11:47 Strategies for Healing23:02 Reverend Dale's Book and Resources29:45 Finding Support and Community30:26 Conclusion and Contact InformationWould you like to share your personal story of sexual healing or empowerment on the show? Email me at [email protected]. Dr. Beverly Dale has made a career of teaching a pleasure-centered, justice-focused and sex-positive Christianity as an ecumenical campus minister at the University of Pennsylvania and by writing, producing, and performing in a one-woman show titled, An Irreverent Journey from Eggbeaters to Vibrators. In 2013 she founded the Incarnation Institute for Sex & Faith that provides training for clergy and sexual health professionals on how to help people rethink harmful religious teaching that creates intimacy issues for couples and problems for individuals self-esteem. Believing in an inclusive, science-friendly, and sex-positive Christianity she developed the curriculum for this cutting edge and unique educational opportunity as well as co-wrote the text in her first book, Advancing Sexual Health for the Christian Client, Data and Dogma (2019). In addition, she has taught seminarians sexuality and faith classes at Lancaster Theological Seminary and is now touring for her second book, “Who Told You That You Were Naked? Meditations on the Sexual Body.” She has a passion for those in the pews and those who have left them because of the rigid or judgmental views about the body that, from her view, is too-often proclaimed in the church and is totally contrary to the Christian faith. www.beverlydale.orgWant to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host Jessa Zimmerman engages with mindfulness and pleasure coach Danielle Savory to explore the intertwined roles of mindfulness, self-compassion, and stress management in enhancing sexual desire and intimacy. The discussion delves into the physiological and psychological impacts of stress on sexual connection, emphasizing the different ways men and women handle stress and the resulting challenges. Practical techniques to improve mindfulness and awareness during sexual interactions are provided, alongside strategies for managing stress individually and within relationships. The episode also outlines personal experiences and transformations, underscoring the importance of self-regulation, creating personal safety, and fostering deeper connections using self-compassionate practices.00:00 Welcome to Better Sex00:50 Introducing Danielle Savory: Mindfulness and Pleasure Coach01:36 Danielle's Journey to Mindfulness and Pleasure06:07 The Connection Between Mindfulness and Sexual Pleasure09:03 Understanding Stress and Its Impact on Pleasure14:35 Gender Differences in Handling Stress and Sexual Pleasure17:25 Navigating Relationship Dynamics17:45 Creating Personal Safety18:34 Bridging the Gap with Partners19:53 Managing Stress and Self-Regulation21:08 Practical Stress-Relief Techniques25:00 Mindfulness and Self-Compassion30:05 Resources and Final ThoughtsTake the quiz at https://www.sexlifequiz.comBioDanielle Savory is a master-certified coach, public speaker, and passionate advocate for women’s pleasure, bringing science-backed data into the life-altering power of pleasure. With a deep, personal understanding of the challenges women face, Danielle is devoted to helping them reclaim their sexuality and reconnect with their bodies. She has successfully guided hundreds of women to overcome body shame, break free from societal expectations, and embrace the passionate lives they deserve. Danielle believes that pleasure isn’t a luxury—it’s essential to a woman’s overall health and happiness. Rooted in neurology, Danielle’s approach emphasizes that every woman is inherently wired for pleasure, and tapping into that pleasure is crucial for optimal well-being—enhancing immunity, focus, creativity, and vitality. Having overcome her own struggles with body image, mixed messages about sex and past traumas, she now shares her wisdom and experience with others, helping them step into their power and fully embrace their pleasure. Whether through her coaching, speaking engagements, podcast, or courses, Danielle is on a mission to help women live lives they are truly in love with—where they are deeply satisfied, fully alive, and boldly standing up for what they believe.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this enlightening episode of Better Sex, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman converses with sex and relationship coach Aaron Michael. The discussion unpacks Aaron's journey into sexual health, beginning with his experiences in massage therapy and addressing his personal challenges. Key topics include 'suction sex,' 'embodied consent,' and 'embodied love,' offering a fresh approach to sexual pleasure, intimacy, and mutual satisfaction. Practical insights about overcoming numbness, understanding psychological and physical barriers, and the role of self-pleasuring in building confidence are explored. Additionally, the episode highlights the disparity within the sexual wellness industry, advocating for better education and higher standards for practitioners. Aaron also introduces 'Embodied Love University,' a platform designed to elevate sexual education and integrate wellness practices into broader medical and educational frameworks.00:00 Welcome to Better Sex with Jessa Zimmerman00:48 Meet Aaron Michael: A Journey into Sex and Relationship Coaching03:39 Understanding Suction Sex: A New Approach to Shared Pleasure07:59 Embodied Consent: Tuning into Your Body's Yes, No, and Maybe09:46 Embodied Love: Building Intimacy Through Truth, Trust, and Celebration11:19 Overcoming Numbness and Secondary Pleasure in Sexual Relationships15:54 Awakening the Sensual Woman: A Six-Week Program17:04 Masterclass Break: Making Sex Fun and Easy17:49 Understanding the Pleasure System19:37 Challenges for the Giver21:47 Alleviating Performance Anxiety24:58 Exploring Fantasies and Communication28:09 The Future of Sexual Wellness32:26 Introducing Embodied Love University33:37 Programs and Resources37:38 Conclusion and Contact InformationInterested in my webinars that talk about desire discrepancy? You can sign up at https://www.intimacywithease.com/masterclassBioAaron Michael, author of Optimal Sex life, creator of Bedroom Masterclass, and a Relationship, Intimacy and Sex Coach. He is your Coach’s coach and has dedicated himself to helping others discover, explore and integrate their sexual sovereignty by providing a no bs, adult, sex positive sex education.With over +5000 hours of sexological body work, his work has influenced over 100,000 people, two venture funded startups, and he is the founder of Embodied Love™, Embodied Consent™ and Suction Sex™—a new method for the embodiment of penetrative sex.He has created multiple online courses, from “9 Naughty Nights” to “YEAHFAP” to “Awakening The Sensual Woman”, which support individuals to be able to give and receive ecstatic pleasure as well as enhance their mental and physical arousal. Aaron is sought out for his innovative approach to resolving issues such as genital pain, anaorgasmia, premature ejaculation, penetration anxiety, mis-matched arousal, and mental arousal. His method is at the core of the Kama sex app practices and tools, as well as the Adamo Bioscience medical protocol for transforming sexual dysfunction. He has an Elite MA in Cognitive Semiotics and an BA with Honors in Linguistics where he specialized in adult romantic attachment, courtship and how the brain interprets love. With over 20 years of experience as an embodiment coach in the field of dating, relationship and sex he crafts bespoke embodiment programs for you and your loved ones. He and Dr. Saida are concentrating all of this work and expertise by co-founding the comprehensive, sexual wellness, learning platform at embodiedloveuniversity.com, which is a university like education and community, for sexual fluency and free education for all. Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass

In this episode of Better Sex, host Jessa Zimmerman welcomes Dr. Irwin Goldstein (Dr, G(, a pioneer in sexual medicine, to discuss the intricacies of menopause and women's sexual health. The conversation delves into the hormonal changes during menopause, common misconceptions, and the benefits of seeking treatment even though menopause is a natural phase. Dr. G emphasizes the importance of understanding the Genital Urinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) and its symptoms, and discusses various reversible treatment options including bioidentical hormones. The episode highlights the significant impact of monitored hormone management on improving women's health and the importance of educating women and medical professionals about the changes menopause brings. Jessa and Dr. G also touch on the societal tendency to overlook women's sexual health and the necessity for more comprehensive research and treatment guidelines. They conclude by discussing how women can find the right care in their areas through organizations like ISSWSH, and Jessa urges listeners to subscribe and rate the podcast for more insights.00:00 Welcome to Better Sex with Jessa Zimmerman00:45 Introduction to Dr. G and the Importance of Sexual Medicine01:07 Understanding Menopause: Symptoms and Misconceptions01:50 Dr. G's Personal Story and Approach to Menopause04:20 Hormonal Changes and Their Impact on Women's Health07:19 The Importance of Testosterone in Women08:53 Challenges in Treating Menopause: FDA and Gender Bias09:42 Natural vs. Treatable: The Debate on Menopause12:04 Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)16:31 The Role of ISSWSH and Urology in Women's Sexual Health20:39 Treatment Options for Menopause23:50 Monitoring and Administering Hormone Treatments35:37 Finding the Right Provider and Conclusion37:03 Closing Remarks and Listener EngagementWork with Jessa? Learn more at https://www.intimacywithease.comBio:Dr. Goldstein has been involved with sexual dysfunction research since the late 1970's. He has authored more than 350 publications as well as multiple book chapters and edited 6 textbooks in the field. His interests include penile microvascular bypass surgery, surgery for dyspareunia, sexual health management post cancer treatment, genital dysesthesia/persistent genital arousal disorder, physiologic investigation of sexual function in men and women, and diagnosis and treatment of sexual dysfunction in men and women. Dr. Goldstein is Director of Sexual Medicine at Alvarado Hospital, Clinical Professor of Surgery at University of California, San Diego and practices medicine at San Diego Sexual Medicine. He is also Editor-in-Chief of Sexual Medicine Reviews and past Editor of The Journal of Sexual Medicine. He is a Past President of the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health and of the Sexual Medicine Society of North America. He holds a degree in engineering from Brown University and received his medical degree from McGill University. The World Association for Sexual Health awarded the Gold Medal to Dr. Goldstein in 2009 in recognition of his lifelong contributions to the field, in 2012 he received the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health Award for Distinguished Service in Women’s Sexual Health, in 2013 he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, and in 2014 he received the ISSM Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Society for Sexual Medicine. He is happily married to his college sweetheart Sue, and together they have three children and five grandchildren.Want to learn more about my sponsored charity? Charity: Water is committed to providing clean water to every human on the planet, 100% of your contribution will be used directly for water projects around the globe. You can learn more at https://www.bettersexpodcast.com/water.More info and resources:Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcastSecret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcastSpecial Collections of the podcast:Increasing Desire EpisodesEroticism and Excitement EpisodesMy Favorite AuthorsHow Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.comThe Course – https://www.intimacywithease.comThe Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.comPodcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.comAccess the Free webinar: How to make sex easy and fun for both of you: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass