Sex, Intimacy, and Menopause (The Best of the Menopause Movement Podcast Episode 76)
A common symptom of menopause is loss of sex drive, and it not only affects our own self-esteem, but it can also affect our relationships. The thing is, some think we're not supposed to struggle with sex and that it's something that's just supposed to happen naturally. What’s worse is if it's not really working… something must be wrong. As a result, people tend to feel broken, inadequate or really afraid. But there is a way to share pleasure and connection with your partner and it doesn't need to be stressful. We’re here to let you know that nothing is broken. Discussion Points: [2:24] How Jessa became a sex therapist[3:28] Divorce, existential crisis, and perimenopausal[6:23] Effects of grief and loss to one's sex life [7:41] Difficulties in talking about sexuality [9:17] Addressing incorrect beliefs about sexuality [11:19] How to deal with people who have bouts of trauma and suffering [13:17] Dealing with people who have fixed mindsets [14:54] Common sexual issues for women in menopause [18:27] The tendency to overlook sexual dysfunction and pain [19:36] Sex therapy includes discovery and education about sexuality [21:50] How to address people with sexual trauma [23:41] Jessa's take on orgasmic meditation [25:51] Views about aids to sexual pleasure [26:18] Preferences, desire discrepancy, and sexual mismatch [27:54] Communicating with the partner about sexual issues [29:07] The lack of proper medium for sex education [30:40] Detaching fantasies and goals from intimacy [32:24] Recovering from a rut [35:47] Nothing is broken About the Guest: Jessa Zimmerman is an author, podcast host, and certified sex therapist and couples counselor. She helps couples who are avoiding sexual activities because of negativity, stress, disappointment, and pressure. Jessa also coaches couples to overcome such experiences to enjoy and maintain a healthy intimate and sexual relationship. Resources: Check my latest podcast or listen to the previous ones (https://www.menopausemovement.com/podcast) Connect with me on Instagram (@drmichellegordon) Follow me on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/drmichellegordon) Visit Jessa Zimmerman’s website (https://intimacywithease.com/) Listen to the Better Sex podcast (https://intimacywithease.com/podcast/) Download Jessa’s free resource (https://jessazimmerman.mykajabi.com/opt-in-e1c80391-fe9b-414f-937a-16daae78061a) Books mentioned in this episode (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases): Sex Without Stress (Paid Link: https://amzn.to/37w59KD) For more podcast episodes, you may also visit my website. Tune in and subscribe to The Menopause Movement Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher. Thank you for tuning in!If You Like It, Donate To My Venmo! Thanks!: https://account.venmo.com/u/drgordonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.