038. Vaginal Health Painful Sex & Perimenopause With Dr. Diana Kumar & Dr. Teresa Walsh

Vaginal Health, Painful Sex & Perimenopause: What Every Woman Needs to KnowIn this episode of Sex Ritual Radio, Rose Heartsong sits down with Dr. Theresa Walsh and Dr. Diana Kumar, co-founders of Gliss Wellness, an online gynecological and sexual wellness platform offering care across the country.Together, they open up an honest, shame-free conversation about vaginal health, painful sex, BV, yeast infections, perimenopause, menopause, libido, hormones, and why women deserve better education and support around their bodies.This conversation is for every woman who has ever wondered, “Is this normal?” Whether you are navigating recurrent vaginal discomfort, painful sex, changing hormones, low libido, or simply want to be proactive about your reproductive and sexual health, this episode offers clear, grounded information from two gynecologists who deeply care about making women’s health more accessible.In This Episode, We Talk AboutWhy vaginal discharge, odor, itching, and discomfort are common reasons women seek careThe difference between BV and yeast infectionsWhy recurrent BV may involve a sexual partnerSimple ways to support vaginal health, including breathable clothing, cotton underwear, and changing out of wet swimsuits or workout clothesWhy painful sex can happen at any ageMedical causes of painful sex, including infections, endometriosis, autoimmune conditions, pelvic floor issues, skin changes, and trauma historyHow somatic healing, pelvic floor therapy, and sex coaching can work alongside medical careWhat happens to hormones during the menstrual cycleWhat perimenopause actually isHow perimenopause and menopause can affect libido, sleep, mood, vaginal tissue, lubrication, and sensationThe role of vaginal estrogenWhy lube is not a sign of lack, but an incredible tool for pleasure and comfortThe difference between endometriosis and PCOSWhy women need to advocate for themselves inside medical appointmentsHow telehealth can make sexual and reproductive healthcare more accessible00:00 Show Intro and Mission00:59 Meet the Founders02:18 What Is Gliss Wellness03:55 Top Patient Concerns05:58 BV and Yeast Treatments09:26 Prevention and Lifestyle Tips12:37 Healthy Menopause Prep16:28 Painful Sex Causes18:48 Trauma and Pelvic Therapy21:42 Perimenopause Sex Support23:47 Hormones 101 Quick Quiz24:31 Progesterone and PMS26:10 Estrogen Drop After Ovulation26:41 Cycle Appetite Swings28:05 Hormone Cycle Walkthrough28:50 Perimenopause Changes29:45 Libido in Midlife31:50 Practical Libido Fixes34:53 When to Seek HRT35:50 Vaginal Estrogen and Lube37:58 Endometriosis vs PCOS39:14 PCOS Treatment Tradeoffs43:03 Endometriosis Causes and Care44:39 Telehealth Access and Wrap UpGuest InfoDr. Theresa Walsh and Dr. Diana Kumar are gynecologists and co-founders of Gliss Wellness, a national online platform offering gynecological and sexual wellness care. Their work supports patients with perimenopause, menopause, vaginal health, sexual pain, recurrent discharge, birth control, PCOS, bone health, sexual health, GLP-1 support, and more.Website:https://www.findgliss.com/Host InfoRose Heartsong is a Sex, Love, and Intimacy Coach, Tantra and Kink Coach, and host of Sex Ritual Radio, where she explores sexuality, spirituality, holistic healing, and the taboo conversations our culture often avoids.Website:https://www.roseheartsong.com/ Listen If You’re Curious AboutWhy does sex hurt?Is vaginal discharge normal?Why do I keep getting BV or yeast infections?What happens to my sex life during perimenopause?Do I need vaginal estrogen?How do hormones affect libido?What’s the difference between PCOS and endometriosis?How can I talk to my doctor about my sexual health?Quote From the Episode“Sex should be fun. It should not be painful, and it should be playful, alive, erotic, and joyful.”DisclaimerThis episode is for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for medical care. If you are experiencing pain, unusual discharge, odor, itching, bleeding, symptoms of infection, or changes in your sexual or reproductive health, please consult a qualified medical provider.✨ Resources & Special Offers ✨🌹 Explore more at www.roseheartsong.com🛏 Splash Blanket - 10% off with code ROSEHEARTSONG → https://splashblanket.us/