Sexual-Health

Why Sexual Health is so Important

Ryan Mcwhorter, MD

Women’s sexual health: Start by talking about your needs

It’s not always easy to talk about your sexual desires; however, your partner can’t read your mind. Sharing your thoughts and expectations about your sexual experiences can bring you closer together and help you experience greater sexual enjoyment.

To get started:

Admit your discomfort.If you feel anxious, say so. Opening up about your concerns may help you start the conversation. Explain to your partner if you feel a little shy about discussing what you want, and ask for reassurance that your partner is open to the conversation.

Start talking. Once you begin the discussion, your confidence and comfort level may increase.

Set a time limit. Avoid overwhelming each other with a lengthy talk. By devoting 15-minute conversations to the topic, you might find it easier to stay within your emotional comfort zones.

Talk regularly. Your conversations about sexual experiences and desires will get easier the more you talk.

Use a book or movie. Invite your partner to read a book about women’s sexual health, or recommend chapters or sections that highlight your questions and concerns. You might also use a movie scene as a starting point for a discussion.

Topics to Address with Your Partner

When you’re talking to your partner about your sexual needs, try to be specific. Consider addressing these topics:

Time. Are you setting aside enough time for sexual intimacy? If not, what can you do to change things? How can you prioritize sexual intimacy? Think about how you and your partner can support each other (for example, taking care of stressful tasks) to help create time and energy for sex.

Your relationship. Talk about any challenges between you and your partner that might be interfering with sex, and ways that you can address them.

Romance. Do you and your partner have the same definition of romance? Is it missing? How can you reignite it? How can romance set the stage for sexual intimacy?

Pleasure. What gives you individual and mutual enjoyment? Be open to hearing your partner’s requests and negotiating differences if one of you is uncomfortable with the other’s request. Discuss boundaries of what sexual activities make you uncomfortable.

Routine vs. rut. Has sex become too routine or predictable? What changes might you make? For instance, explore different times to have sex or try new techniques. Consider more cuddling, a sensual massage, self-stimulation, oral sex or the use of a vibrator — depending on what interests you. Talk about what you like, what you don’t like and what new things you would like to try.

Emotional intimacy. Sex is more than a physical act. Remind each other that it’s also an opportunity for emotional connection, which builds closeness in a relationship. Try to take the pressure off of each other when it comes to having sexual intercourse or achieving orgasm. Enjoy touching each other, kissing and feeling physically and emotionally close.

Physical and emotional changes. Are physical changes, such as an illness, weight gain, changes after surgery or hormonal changes, affecting your sex life? Also address emotional factors that may be interfering with your ability to enjoy sexual activity, such as being under stress or feeling depressed.

Beliefs. Discuss your beliefs and expectations about sexuality. Consider whether misconceptions — such as the idea that women become less sexual after menopause — are affecting your sex life.

Testimonials

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Jane Peros / Auburn, AL

I was a mess. Had no desire, pain during sex…I thought my days of enjoying sex were over. I am so glad I came in to see Dr. McWhorter. I am back to enjoying sex, feeling more confident and just overall feel better. Best thing I ever did.

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How to Handle Differing Sexual Needs

Sexual needs vary. Many factors can affect your sexual appetite, from stress, illness and aging to family, career and social commitments. Whatever the cause, differences in sexual desire between partners can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, rejection or resentment. Talk to your partner about:

Your intimacy needs. Intimacy is more than just sexual needs. Intimacy also includes emotional, spiritual, physical and recreational needs. If your emotional intimacy needs aren’t being met, you may be less interested in sex. Think about what your partner could do to enhance your emotional intimacy, and talk about it openly and honestly.

Your differences in sexual desire. In any long-term relationship, couples may experience differing levels of sexual desire. Discuss your differences and try to explore options that will satisfy both of you.

When to talk with your doctor

If your difficulty persists, consider turning to a doctor or sex therapist for help. If you take medications and are concerned about your level of desire, review your medications with your doctor. If a particular medication is affecting your comfort with sex or desire for sex, your doctor may be able to suggest an alternative.

Likewise, if a physical sign or symptom — such as vaginal dryness — is interfering with your sexual enjoyment, ask about treatment options. For example, a lubricant or other medication can help with vaginal dryness associated with hormonal changes or other factors.

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