Unmuted Ep. 4 | ADDYi, Sexual Desire & Women’s Health — A Holistic Conversation

In this episode of Unmuted: The Midlife Roundtable, we open an informed, honest discussion about ADDYi, women’s health, and the realities of sexual desire—especially during menopause. Guided by a highly qualified panel of women’s health and sexual wellness professionals, this conversation explores how medication, mental health, intimacy, and relationships intersect—and why informed, empowered choice matters. We explore:🔲 Why ADDYi is prescribed for women’s sexual desire and what women should understand before considering medication 🔲 How menopause, mental health, and relationships influence intimacy and sexual wellness 🔲 The difference between medicalized desire and a holistic health approach to women’s health 🔲 How marketing shapes perceptions of female sexuality and sexual wellness solutions 🔲 Why education, connection, and empowerment are essential for informed choices in women’s health Our roundtable includes: 🔲 Serena Haines - Certified Sex Coach & SXI Certified Sexologist🔲 Taylor McConnachie - AASECT Certified Sex Therapist🔲 Amanda Otterman - RN, CPT & Certified Menopause Specialist🔲 Lisa Boate - Menopause Consultant & Coach🔲 Gina Marie - Somatic Coach & Love & Intimacy Specialist🔲 Deborah Porteous - Co-Founder of Pleasure Pods Company This episode empowers women to become informed advocates for their own care and reminds us that sexual wellness is not one-size-fits-all. Thoughtful, evidence-informed, and compassionate, this conversation offers clarity without pressure—and reinforces that choice, support, and understanding matter. 00:00 Intro00:58 The Controversy of the ADDYi Pill04:06 Understanding the Mechanism of ADDYi06:59 The Nuances of Female Desire10:03 The Impact of Diagnosis on Women's Sexual Health12:57 Concerns About Medication and Relationships16:03 Contraindications and Safety of ADDYi19:02 The Broader Context of Women's Sexual Health22:01 Marketing and Misrepresentation of ADDYi24:39 Navigating Hormonal Changes and Personal Challenges26:49 The Complexity of Medication and Sexual Health29:53 The Importance of Holistic Approaches to Sexual Wellness34:02 Empowerment Through Self-Discovery and Connection38:51 Exploring Intimacy and Relational Dynamics42:58 The Art of Touch and Presence in Sexual Relationships47:43 The Role of Medication in Sexual Health48:36 Celebrating Women's Leadership in Sexual Health49:54 Understanding the Implications of New Medications52:35 The Importance of Holistic Approaches in Menopause55:22 Navigating Medical Guidance for Sexual Health58:05 The Need for Specialized Support in Sexual Health01:00:14 Addressing the Psychological Aspects of Desire01:01:09 Comparing Medications: ADDYi vs. Zoloft01:03:00 The Path of Least Resistance in Treatment01:06:24 Understanding Age Restrictions for ADDYi01:08:07 The Broader Implications of Sexual Health Medications01:11:44 Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways and Future Conversations Follow the panel of women on Instagram: @Serena_haines@embodiedsexualwellness - Taylor@menohealthnurse - Amanda@lboate - Lisa@intimatelygigimarie - Gina Marie@thepleasurepods - Deborah@unmutedmidlifepodcast Sponsor:The Pleasure Pods - https://thepleasurepods.com 🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube