Reclaiming Women’s Pleasure: Tackling Low Libido and Sexual Health with Michelle Jermy

What I Discussed With Michelle Jermy…- Why low libido is rarely "just hormones" and why relationships, stress and emotional wellbeing matter just as much.- How healthcare professionals can ask better questions about women's sexual health instead of focusing only on symptoms.- Why so many women continue having unwanted or uncomfortable sex to avoid conflict or disappointing their partner.- How pain during sex, menopause and trauma can quietly erode sexual desire over time.- Why understanding your own body is essential before expecting a partner to understand it.- How a new clinical toolkit could transform the way doctors, nurses and therapists support women with sexual concerns.- Why women should feel empowered to ask questions, advocate for themselves and seek second opinions when necessary.- How expanding our definition of sex beyond penetration can improve intimacy and reduce pressure.And much more...Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction01:20 Michelle's New Research on Women's Sexual Health03:00 Why Low Libido Is More Than Hormones07:00 The Questions Doctors Aren't Asking11:00 Why Women's Sexual Concerns Are Often Overlooked15:00 Helping Patients Advocate for Themselves18:00 Creating Better Clinical Pathways for Sexual Health22:00 Why Sex Is About More Than Penetration26:00 Michelle's New Clinical Toolkit29:00 Looking AheadShow NotesWhen women say they've lost their libido, are we asking the right questions?It's easy to assume that a change in sexual desire is simply a hormonal issue, particularly during menopause. But while hormones certainly play a role, they're only one piece of a much bigger picture. Relationships, emotional wellbeing, stress, pain, trauma, body confidence and even the quality of our sleep can all influence how we experience intimacy.In this episode, I'm joined once again by psychotherapist and psychosexual therapist Michelle Jermy, whose work focuses on helping healthcare professionals feel more confident talking about women's sexual wellbeing. Rather than simply treating symptoms, Michelle believes we need to understand the person sitting in front of us—and ask questions that many clinicians currently avoid.We explore why women often feel pressure to prioritise their partner's needs, why pain and low desire are frequently dismissed, and why so many patients leave appointments without the support they were hoping for. Michelle also shares details of an exciting research project aimed at developing a practical toolkit that could help clinicians identify not only medical causes of sexual difficulties, but also the emotional and relational factors that are often overlooked.Perhaps the most important message is that sexual wellbeing isn't a luxury or an optional extra. It's part of our overall health. And the more openly we can talk about it—in clinics, in relationships and with ourselves—the more likely we are to receive the care and understanding we deserve.Listen, learn and enjoy.Understanding Low Libido in WomenWhat Is Low Libido?Low libido describes a persistent reduction in sexual desire that causes concern or affects a person's wellbeing or relationships. It isn't simply about how often someone wants sex, but whether that change feels significant to them.Why Does It Happen?Low libido is often influenced by a combination of physical, emotional and relational factors. Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can contribute, but so can poor sleep, stress, pain during sex, medication, relationship difficulties, trauma and mental health.What Are the Common Signs?- Reduced interest in sexual activity- Difficulty becoming aroused- Pain or discomfort during intimacy- Avoiding sex altogether- Feeling pressure to have sex despite not wanting it- Feeling disconnected from your own desires- Relationship tension linked to intimacyWhat Can People Do About It?Start by speaking with a healthcare professional who is willing to explore the full picture—not just hormone levels. Consider physical factors such as vaginal dryness or medication side effects, but also reflect on relationship satisfaction, emotional wellbeing, stress and your own understanding of pleasure. If necessary, seek support from a psychosexual therapist, pelvic health specialist or menopause clinician who takes a holistic approach to sexual wellbeing.Key Takeaways- Low libido is influenced by much more than hormones.- Emotional wellbeing and relationship quality have a significant impact on sexual desire.- Many women continue having sex out of obligation rather than pleasure.- Healthcare professionals need better training in discussing sexual wellbeing.- Understanding your own body makes communication with a partner much easier.- Women deserve to have concerns about pain and desire taken seriously.- Sexual health assessments should include emotional and relational questions.- Expanding our definition of sex can reduce pressure and increase intimacy.- Seeking a second opinion is worthwhile if your concerns are dismissed.- Better conversations lead to better care.About the GuestMichelle Jermy is a psychotherapist, psychosexual therapist and founder of The Yoni Therapist. She specialises in supporting women experiencing low libido, painful sex, menopause-related sexual changes and relationship difficulties, while also working with healthcare professionals to improve conversations around sexual wellbeing. Alongside her clinical practice, Michelle is developing a research project and practical assessment toolkit designed to help clinicians recognise the biological, psychological and relational factors that influence women's sexual health.About SuzanneSuzanne Noble is a sex and relationship expert, author, and host of the Sex Advice for Seniors podcast—one of the top-rated shows empowering people 50+ to embrace confident, joyful intimacy. Known for her candid, warm, and often humorous approach, Suzanne challenges age-related taboos, misinformation, and awkward conversations about sex after 50. She helps millions around the world navigate their sexual lives with pleasure, connection, and self-assurance. Because life is too short for bad sex... or silence about it.Connect With SuzanneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexadviceforseniorsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sexadviceforseniorsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sexadviceforseniorsSubstack: https://www.sexadviceforseniors.comWant More?Visit the Website: https://sexadviceforseniors.com — includes FREE guides and resources for better sex at any age.Free Downloadable Guide: 10 Most Overlooked Secrets to Better Sex PDF: https://subscribepage.io/suzannenoblefreebieSign Up for My FREE Newsletter: https://sexadviceforseniors.comOvercome Erectile Dysfunction & Stay Firm: https://www.stayfirmprogram.comCheck Out My Storefront for Better Sex: https://zaap.bio/stayfirmInterested in 1:1 Coaching or Custom Sex Advice for Seniors Sessions? https://tidycal.com/suzannenoble/30-minute-mentoringRelated EpisodesBonus Live: Why Sex Stops Working When We Stay in Our Heads - https://www.sexadviceforseniors.com/p/bonus-live-why-sex-stops-workingBonus Live: Your body isn’t broken — it’s just done performing. - https://www.sexadviceforseniors.com/p/live-with-suzanne-noble-w-amara-charlesWhy Women Feel Completely Different After Menopause | Tanya Leake - https://www.sexadviceforseniors.com/p/why-women-feel-completely-different This is a public episode. 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