The Complexities of Desire: Understanding Libido in Women Part II

Send us Fan MailSummaryWelcome to Episode 3 of The Hot Flash Diaries! In this episode, host Jessica Caceres continues her conversation with Dr. Maureen Slattery, a board-certified OBGYN with over 20 years of experience, certified menopause practitioner, sex educator, and certified sexuality counselor from Rochester, New York.What You'll Learn:How to reframe your mindset about desire and intimacy in midlifeWhy libido changes are multifactorial (it's not just about testosterone!)Practical communication strategies for talking with your partner about sexual healthThe importance of managing stress, sleep, and nervous system regulationCreative ways to maintain intimacy when desire is lowWhen to consider sex therapy vs. regular counselingThe role of hormones, moisturizers, and other physical solutionsWhy scheduling intimacy isn't unsexy—it's strategic!Key Takeaways: ✨ Menopause is a transformation, not something happening TO you ✨ Small changes can make a big difference (variety is the spice of life!) ✨ Normalize what you're experiencing and communicate openly ✨ Protect your time and set boundaries to reduce stress ✨ Your fully developed frontal lobe is your superpower in midlifeChapters00:00 Introduction to Libido and Midlife Changes01:55 Mindset Shifts in Sexual Desire04:56 Navigating Relationships and Intimacy07:42 The Role of Hormones in Sexual Health10:49 Setting Boundaries and Self-Care13:38 Communication Strategies for Couples16:30 Scheduling Intimacy and Building Anticipation25:04 The Importance of Timing in Conversations26:17 Maintaining Intimacy in Low-Desire Situations29:21 Exploring New Ways to Enhance Sexual Experience32:42 Recognizing When to Seek Professional Help36:00 Understanding the Role of Mental Health in Sexuality37:43 First Steps for Women Addressing Low Sex Drive42:28 Empowering Women with Knowledge and ResourcesRecommended Reading:"Come As You Are" by Emily Nagoski"She Comes First" by Ian Kerner"The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der KolkBooks by Esther Perel on relationships and intimacyHelpful Resources:The Menopause Society (formerly NAMS): menopause.orgCanadian Menopause SocietyInternational Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT)Interested in connecting with Dr. Slattery? https://www.drmaureenslattery.com/Jessica’s Links For You:Jessica’s Links For You:Website: https://www.bonitamedicalaesthetics.com/podcastInstagram: @thehotflash.diaries & @youare.bonita• Facebook  •  Tiktok  •   Youtube: @thehotflashdiariespodcast