More Than Sex - Exploring the Realities of Female Sexual Health

Women In Real Life

Join CJ and her special guest, Linda Chocolate Berthier, as they venture into the often-taboo topic of women's sexual health. Linda, a registered nurse with over two decades of experience in sexual and reproductive health, shares her extensive knowledge, breaking down myths and addressing the critical importance of consensual, healthy sexual relationships for mental wellness.

This episode is taken from The Women In Real Life Radio Show which airs weekly on Rhythm 95.5.

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Highlights:

Introduction of guest (00:08:03) CJ introduces Linda Chocolate Berthier.

Cultural and religious influences on attitudes towards sex (00:09:43) The cultural and religious influences on attitudes towards sex

The impact of good sexual health on mental wellness (00:17:27) Linda explains the positive impact of sex on mental health, including the release of feel-good hormones and its role in moods and overall well-being.

Consensual sex and dispelling myths (00:19:51) The importance and impact of consent. The misconception that talking about it is consent. Addressing myths about satisfaction and sexual health, including the significance of orgasms.

STD rates in the elderly (00:23:43) Exploring the increase in STD rates among the elderly and the impact of shame and guilt on sexual health in nursing homes.

Vaginal health and aging (00:25:29) The changes in vaginal health and the impact of aging, including the decreased ability of the vagina to self-clean. The significance of vaginal pH and addressing myths about vaginal hygiene and the use of products for vaginal health.

Menopause and sexual health (00:35:08) The changes in a woman's body during perimenopause and menopause, including the impact on libido and vaginal dryness.

Vaginal anatomy and hygiene (00:38:37) Clarifying the anatomy of the vagina.

Understanding and Embracing Body Image (00:39:57) Impact of body image and body shame, on sexual enjoyment.

Personal Hygiene and Grooming (00:42:09) Grooming choices, hygiene practices, and the importance of self-care in maintaining a healthy vagina.

The Impact of Sexual Partners on Vaginal Health (00:48:34) Exploration of how multiple sexual partners can influence vaginal pH.

The Significance of Testing and Medication for HIV Prevention (00:53:00) Explanation of the importance of testing, medication, and exclusivity in preventing the transmission of HIV and other STIs.

Communication and Decision-making in Sexual Relationships (00:56:39) The importance of mature communication and decision-making in sexual relationships, including having uncomfortable conversations.

Yeast Infections and STIs (00:59:42) Explanation of yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and the potential impact on susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections.

Pap Smears and Autoimmune Conditions (01:02:56) Importance of regular pap smears, CJ's surgery - early detection of abnormal cells, and managing sexual health with autoimmune conditions. Vaginal Odor (01:06:22) Understanding different vaginal odors, the importance of hygiene, and maintaining a healthy vaginal environment.

Quotes CJ, 00:00:01, "In a world of billions, where every one of us is the outcome of sex, it's curious how we still treat the topic like 'he who must not be named'."

Linda Chocolate Berthier, 00:17:49, "Sex is one of the activities that increases the endorphins and release of the hormone dopamine in your brain, which helps you feel good and interferes with your emotion, heightening your mood."

Linda Chocolate Berthier, 00:21:40, "However, with consent, sex is more enjoyable. If sex is not consented, that release of dopamine ain't gonna happen."

Linda Chocolate Berthier', '01:07:15', " A very healthy vagina is a very strong vagina."

Linda Chocolate Berthier', '01:10:30', "Don't be afraid to have the uncomfortable conversation... Sex is so intimate and personal, it is even more personal than an uncomfortable conversation."