Sex Care is Self Care
Sex Care is Self Care is a podcast from the SHE+ Foundation that promotes sexual health and wellness through a sex-positive lens. Host Patty Brisben, founder of Pure Romance, draws on decades of experience to lead conversations with experts on the SHE+ Medical Advisory Board and other sexual health professionals. Each episode offers up-to-date information and practical guidance on a wide range of sexual health topics. The show encourages listeners to treat sexual health as an essential part of self-care. Listener questions and feedback are welcome via the foundation.
Episodes
SHE+ 59 | Dr. Lori Brotto Libido & Mindfulness
Dr. Lori Brotto joins Sex Care is Self Care for a powerful conversation on women’s sexual health, pleasure, and the science behind sexual wellness. Hosted by Patty Brisben, this episode explores how stress, trauma, menopause, desire, and communication all shape women’s sexual well-being—and why sexual health must be treated as whole-person health.From her early research journey to becoming a leadi
SHE+ 58 | Dr. Evan Goldstein on Anal Health & Pleasure
In this episode of Sex Care is Self Care, Founder Patty Brisben is joined by Dr. Evan Goldstein for a frank, stigma-free conversation about anal health, pleasure, and why this part of the body deserves far more care, and far less silence.As a nationally recognized expert and founder of Bespoke Surgical, Dr. Goldstein breaks down the anatomy, common misconceptions, and real medical considerations a
SHE+ 57 | Dr. Jordan Emont on Pleasure, Intimacy, and Emotional Realities
In this episode of Sex Care is Self Care, Founder Patty Brisben is joined by Dr. Jordan Emont for an honest, expansive conversation about pleasure, intimacy, and the emotional realities that shape our sexual lives.Dr. Emont helps us unpack how desire, communication, and connection are influenced by mental health, relationships, stress, and the stories we’ve been taught about sex and our bodies. To
SHE+ 56 | Dr. Chailee Moss
In this episode of Sex Care is Self Care, Founder Patty Brisben sits down with Dr. Chailee Moss, a leading public health researcher and advocate, to explore the intersections of sexual health, equity, and systems-level change.Dr. Moss brings her expertise to a powerful conversation about how research, policy, and community-centered care can work together to close gaps in sexual and reproductive he
SHE+ 55 | The Menopause Moment with Dr. Kelly Casperson
Sex Care is Self Care host Patty Brisben sits down with urologist, menopause expert, and bestselling author Dr. Kelly Casperson to talk about her powerful new book, The Menopause Moment. Together, they unpack why menopause is not a medical footnote, but a pivotal moment in women’s health, pleasure, and autonomy.In this conversation, Patty and Dr. Casperson explore the myths and misinformation that
SHE+ 54 | Bonnie Gross on the Lady Parts Film
What happens when women’s pain is ignored, dismissed, or mislabeled as “all in your head”? In this episode, Patty Brisben sits down with writer, comedian, and filmmaker Bonnie Gross, creator of the award-winning film Lady Parts, inspired by her own journey through years of misdiagnosis, medical gaslighting, and ultimate healing.Part heartfelt and part hilarious, Lady Parts flips the script on sham
SHE+ 53 | Understanding GSL with Dr. Rachel Rubin!
"An educated patient is the best patient." - Dr. Rachel Rubin In this episode, SHE+ President and Chairwoman Patty Brisben sits down with Dr. Rachel Rubin, a board-certified urologist and sexual medicine specialist. As a pioneer in the field, Dr. Rubin brings unmatched attention and expertise to conditions that impact so many women, and for too long, went without a name: Genitourinary Sy
SHE+ 52 | Dr. Jocelyn Fitzgerald, OB/GYN & Gynecologic Economics Expert
Join host Patty Brisben in this powerful conversation with Dr. Jocelyn Fitzgerald - Double Board-Certified Urogynecologist and OB/GYN & Gynecologic Economics (#GynEconomics) Expert! Did you know that a four-hour endometriosis excision surgery will be reimbursed less financially than a 30-minute orthopedic surgery? Together, Dr. Fitzgerald & Patty Brisben dive deep into #gyneconomics - and
SHE+ 50 | Navigating from the Frontlines with Dr. Vaccaro & Dr. Iglesia
In this episode, members of the SHE+ Foundation Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Christine Vaccaro & Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, join SHE+ Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben for a dialogue on the current state of women's sexual health. Together, they explore the real-time impact of federal policy shifts on clinical care, barriers to surgical access, and how patients can protect their health in uncer
SHE+ 49 | Navigating from the Frontlines - with Dr. Althof & Dr. Connor
In this episode, members of the SHE+ Foundation Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Karen Connor & Dr. Stan Althof join SHE+ Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben for a thoughtful dialogue on the current state of women's sexual health. They explore how changes in federal policy, research funding, and medical education are shaping the future of women’s sexual health.With insights on pelvic floor th
SHE+ 48 | Navigating from the Frontlines with Dr. Kingsberg & Dr. Mikkilineni
In this episode, members of the SHE+ Foundation Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg & Dr. Anita Mikkilineni (loving called by her patients, "Dr. Mickey") join SHE+ Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben for a heartfelt dialogue on the current state of women's sexual health. Together, they discuss the evolving landscape of sexual and reproductive healthcare, the impact of
SHE+ 47 | Sexual Violence & Sexual Health with Sarah Klein and Lauren Hueber
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Sex Care Is Self-Care, host Patty Brisben sits down with two remarkable women: marriage and family therapist Lauren Brisben Hueber (MS, MFT) and attorney and survivor-advocate Sarah Klein (JD). Together, they explore the complex realities of sexual trauma, the lasting effects it can have on physical and emotional health, and the path toward healing a
SHE+ 46 | Protect Your Kids: Talking About Body Safety with Sarah Klein
In this episode of "Sex Care is Self-Care," Founder of the SHE+ Foundation Patty Brisben welcomes special guest, Sarah Klein, renowned attorney and advocate for survivors of CSA and sexual violence. Sarah shares her personal experience as a survivor of abuse at the hands of Dr. Larry Nassar, and discusses her vital work representing survivors in court. The conversation addresses the crit
SHE+ 45 | "You Are Not Broken" with Dr. Kelly!
On this episode of Sex Care is Self Care, SHE+ Foundation Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben sits down with Dr. Kelly Casperson - a urologist, sex-pert, and author of the book, "You Are Not Broken: Stop Should-ing All Over Your Sex Life." We're so grateful that Dr. Kelly took the time to sit down with us! The book is phenomenal - you can find it on the SHE+ Resource Hub at www.she
SHE+ #44 | Breaking the Silence: Living and Coping with Endometriosis
On this episode of Sex Care is Self Care, Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben is joined by three wonderful women who have been impacted by Endometriosis; Erin Harris, member of the SHE+ Board of Directors, Jessica Dunham, Art Director at Cincinnati Magazine, and Talia Brisben, a college student, and Patty's Granddaughter. Dr. Christine Vaccaro joins as well to provide the medical perspectiv
SHE+ #43 | Trauma and Sexual Health with Lauren Hueber
In Episode 43 of Sex Care is Self Care, Patty is joined by Lauren Hueber - a licensed marriage and family therapist at Clermont Mental Health, and her daughter. As Lauren said, “The reality is, yes it’s hard to seek help, but I think what’s even more challenging, though, is admitting that you need it.” Want to learn more? Lauren wrote a blog for SHE+ as well - read it here: https://www.sheplusfoun
SHE+ #42 | FOUNDATION Rebrand & The Future Of Sexual Health
We have rebranded! The Patty Brisben Foundation for Women's Sexual Health is now the SHE+ Foundation! Get ready to hear from our founder, Patty Brisben, about the rebrand, how the SHE+ Foundation is ready to meet the moment, and how YOU can get involved. Joining Patty Brisben today is Development Director at the SHE+ Foundation, Bri Ledsome, asking questions submitted by you on Instagram Live
SHE+ #41: Kegels: Overhyped or Necessary?
Kegels? Overhyped or necessary exercise? Why pelvic floor function is a whole-body movement.Today we're diving into the age-old debate: are Kegels essential or exaggerated?Get ready to explore why pelvic floor function is more than just isolated exercises---it's a whole-body movement.We'll be answering your questions, from common conditions women face to the role of pelvic floor phy
SHE+ #40: It Takes Two to Tango – Sexual Dysfunction and Relationships
Sexual dysfunction can be a source of anxiety and shamefor the person suffering, but it can also take a toll on theirrelationship.The inability to perform may make a person feel as if they are broken andcan no longer be a good sexual or relationship partner.Today, Dr. Stan Althof and Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg will helpus understand how to navigate a partner’s sexualdysfunction and support them through
SHE+ #39 Beyond the Pain: A Vulvodynia Journey
Vulvodynia, chronic pain in the vulva, affects up to 18% of women who experience pressure, burning, itching, and irritation for at least 3 months. In our latest episode of Sex Care is Self Care, Dr. Christine Vaccaro, Dr. Anita Mikkilineni educate us about the symptoms, how to find relief, and possible treatments. Plus a candid conversation on how well-known it is in the medical community and how
SHE+ #38 Menopause and Hormone Therapy
Menopause is a natural part of aging, but it can cause a lot of discomfort both physically and emotionally. And, the changes in hormone levels can also drastically affect a woman’s sex drive.Today, Dr. Christine Vaccaro, Dr. Rachel Rubin, and Dr. Kelly Casperson will help us understand the symptoms of menopause and how hormone therapy can help.---Kelly Casperson MD www.kellycaspersonmd.comhttps://
Growing Trend: Cosmetic Gynecology of the Vulva SHE+ #37
Cosmetic Gynecology is quickly becoming one of the fastest growing subspecialties of elective surgery for women. Making physical alterations may help improve the physical appearance of the vulva, but are they safe?Today, Dr. Cheryl Iglesia Dr. Bobby Garcia will help us understand this growing trend and whether it can benefit our sexual health. https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/
SHE+ #36 Sex on the Big Screen
We see sex depicted every day in tv and movies. Steamy shows can be a guilty pleasure often because we find these characters and their lives relatable. Today, our Medical Advisory Board members Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, Dr. Christine, Vaccaro, and Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg, will talk about our favorite sexy shows and movies and how these shows can help fuel healthy conversations about sex with our partners a
SHE+ #35 Advocating for Affordable Treatment
Today, Dr. Cheryl Iglesia and Dr. Peggy Ye will help us understand why so many women go without the care they need and what we can do to advocate for more affordable care. For a woman experiencing severe or chronic pain, seeking treatment should be their only concern. Sadly, many women go without the care they need because they can’t afford it, and it isn’t covered by insurance. https://pattybrisb
SHE+ #34 The Penis is not a Machine | Erectile Dysfunction & Relationships
Sexual intimacy is an important part of any healthy relationship, and understandably, not being able to perform can be a sensitive topic for some men and affect relationships. However, it's important to remember that having trouble getting or keeping an erection doesn't mean that you're not desirable, or that you'll never have good sex again.Welcome to Sex- Care is Self-Care, a
SHE+ #33: Pelvic Pain
More Resources for Pelvic PainVulvar pain: 1) https://www.issvd.org/resources/vulvo... 2) nva.orgBladder pain: 1) https://www.voicesforpfd.org/assets/2... 2) https://www.voicesforpfd.org/resource... (scroll down to "Interstitial cystitis / bladder pain syndrome) Endometriosis:1) https://www.acog.org/womens-health/fa...Pelvic floor muscle pain: 1) https://www.choosept.com/guide/physic... 2)
SHE+ #32: After The Affair - Regaining Trust
Infidelity is one of life's most hurtful and difficult experiences to survive, leaving deep emotional wounds in its wake. The resulting suspicion and insecurity can lead couples into a downward spiral that could prove hard to recover from if the issues aren’t addressed. It takes time for those affected by betrayal to trust again, but it isn't impossible; with open communication comes hop
SHE+ #31: Endometriosis
Special guest Dr. Vadim Morozov, Obstetrician-Gynecologist, joins Patty Brisben and the Medical Advisory Board to discuss Endometriosis.Learn more and donate: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/
SHE+ #30: Orgasmic Difficulty
10 percent of women have never had an orgasm. For many women, even those who have had orgasms, it’s not always easy. And only about a third of women experience orgasm regularly during intercourse. Female sexuality is more complicated than male sexuality, and it involves more effort in order to climax. It also doesn’t help that we live in a society where the thought of women being sexual beings is
SHE+ #29: Vulvodynia
Chronic vaginal pain with no identifiable cause impacts an estimated six million women. Known as vulvodynia, this condition often goes undiagnosed despite the level of pain that not only makes intimacy difficult but makes daily life a struggle of pain management. The average woman suffering from vulvodynia will see seven doctors before receiving a diagnosis.Today we are here with PBF Medical Advis
SHE+ #28: Vaginitis & Yeast Infections
Vaginitis describes various disorders that cause inflammation or infection of the vagina. These can be caused by organisms like yeast or bacteria, or by irritations from chemicals in creams or sprays. Today, we are going to talk about one of the most common causes of vaginitis: yeast infections. We are here today with PBF Medical Advisory Board member, Dr. Michael Krychman, and Barb Dehn, who is a
SHE+ #27: Uterine Fibroids
Uterine Fibroids are tumors made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop in the uterus. It is estimated that 70 to 80% of women will develop fibroids in their lifetime-however, not everyone will develop symptoms or require treatment. For those who do develop symptoms, they can include heavy menstrual bleeding, back pain, frequent urination, and pain during sex.We are here
SHE+ #26: Low Libido
Many women discover their libido is lacking, especially as they get older. That’s not necessarily a problem, as long as you’re comfortable with the frequency of your romantic encounters. But it can be frustrating if you miss the urge you once had. Luckily, treatments are available to rev back up your sex life!Today we are joined by PBF Medical Advisory Board members Dr. Michael Krychman, Dr. Shery
SHE+ #25: COSMETIC SEXUAL HEALTH
More women than ever are reporting being self-conscious about the way their genitals look. As with many body image woes, the media seems to be a major culprit. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with bodies that deviate from the limited depictions we see in the media, but for some, this deviation appears to be a major source of anxiety. Today we are joined by PBF Medical Advisory Board members Dr. M
SHE+ #24: HSDD - Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder
HSDD (Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder) is a sexual dysfunction that can lead to a lowered sex drive. Many people may unknowingly dismiss symptoms of this disorder as a side effect of everyday stressors or aging. So, how do you know if it’s time to seek professional help? Dr. Michael Krychman and Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg are here to answer all of your questions about HSDD.
SHE+ #23: Lubricants 101
If you’re wondering whether you might need a lubricant, the answer is probably yes. There is a common misconception that personal lubricant is only for older women after menopause. While it’s a great option in that scenario, there are many benefits that lubricants offer for a variety of ages and genders. Today we are here with PBF Medical Advisory Board member’s Dr. Michael Krychman and Dr. Sheryl
SHE+ #22: Sex After 70
Sex after 70 has become a hot topic and was even recently featured in the NY Times. Today we talk to PBF Medical Advisory Board members Dr. Christine Vaccaro and Dr. Cheryl Iglesia about sex after 70. Are you ever too old to have sex?Learn more and donate here: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/
SHE+ #21: Talking to Your Teenagers About Sex
Talking to your children about sex can become even more complex and difficult as they enter their teen years. We are here with two PBF Medical Advisory Board members today, Dr. Christine Vaccaro and Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, to discuss the complexities of talking to your teenagers about sex. Learn more and donate here: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/
SHE+ #20: Talking to Your Young Children About Sex
Parents often do not know when or how to start talking to their children about sex. The conversation is more than just talking about sexuality, it includes talking about their bodies, relationships, boundaries, love and safety. So, when is the right time and how do you begin the conversation? Two of our Medical Advisory Board members, Dr. Christine Vaccaro and Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, are here to discu
SHE+ #19: Infertility: When to See a Specialist with Dr. Michael Thomas
More women than ever before are turning to fertility specialists to help them get pregnant. As many as one in eight couples reportedly struggle to conceive, and a third of Americans have either sought fertility treatment themselves or know someone who has. But how do you know that it’s time to seek professional help? Dr. Michael Thomas discusses fertility and improving your chance of pregnancy.
SHE+ #18: Infertility—Your Questions Answered with Dr. Michael Thomas
Doctor Michael Thomas, Director of OB/GYN Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility at the UC College of Medicine, has dedicated his career to helping patients, students and the community.As a reproductive endocrinologist, Thomas’ research and clinical care focuses on both contraception and fertility. While it may seem counterintuitive to both help people get pregnant and help prevent people fr
SHE+ #17: Dr. Shunaha Kim-Fine
The PBF’s annual grant cycle is at the heart of our mission to advance women’s sexual health by funding innovative treatment research for complex sexual health problems. Dr. Shunaha Kim-Fine, from the Society for Gynecologic Surgeons, is a 2021 grant recipient investigating whether standardized counseling regarding the first sexual encounter following pelvic reconstructive surgery improves postope
SHE+ #16: Dr. Alexis Dieter
The PBF’s annual grant cycle is at the heart of our mission to advance women’s sexual health by funding innovative treatment research for complex sexual health problems. Dr. Alexis Dieter, from the Society for Gynecologic Surgeons, is a 2021 grant recipient investigating the use of CO2 laser therapy for a complex and painful condition called lichen sclerosus.
SHE+ #15: Breast Cancer Survivorship
Featuring Dr. Michael Krychman, Chair of the PBF Medical Advisory Board In 2020, an estimated 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed in women in the U.S., as well as 48,530 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer. Approximately 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. For women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, the 5-year survival rate
SHE+ #14 Focus Area: Female Genital Mutilation
UNICEF estimates that more than 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM.) According to a 2016 CDC report, an estimated 513,000 girls and women in the United States were either victims of FGM or at risk of FGM, with ⅓ under the age of 18.
SHE+ #13 Focus Area: Physical and Sexual Abuse
Featuring Dr. Christine Vaccaro, a member of the PBF Medical Advisory Board.The World Health Organization estimates that about 1 in 3 women worldwide has experienced physical and/or sexual violence. This past year has been especially challenging for victims of physical and sexual abuse, as COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns increased exposure to abusive situations while limiting access to services. We e
SHE+ #12 Vaginal Dryness 101
Vaginal dryness occurs in women of all ages for a variety of reasons. From medications to menopause to breast cancer- there are many reasons why women experience vaginal dryness and irritation. However, 90% of women will not speak to their doctor about this common concern. Dr. Christine Vacarro, Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, and Dr. Kathleen Novicki discuss Vaginal Dryness 101. Learn more and donate: https
SHE+ #11 The Fourth Trimester
The Fourth Trimester refers to the twelve-week postpartum period following birth. In 2018, ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) issued new recommendations for mother and infant postpartum care, recognizing the need to have follow-up care sooner and that care for a postpartum mother be ongoing rather than just a single visit. The postpartum plan should be a part of the conver
Live On Stage! SEX CARE IS SELF CARE Full Panel from National Training 2021
Learn more and donate: http://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/
SHE+ #10 Everything You Wanted to Know About Urogynecology But Were Afraid to Ask
Urogynecology is a gynecologic specialization that manages clinical problems associated with dysfunction of the pelvic floor and bladder. Urogynecologists have additional years of fellowship training and certification in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. So what does a urogynecologist do, and why would you need to see one? Dr. Cheryl Iglesia and Dr. Christine Vaccaro, urogynecolo
SHE+ #9 Everything About Vaginal Dilators
Today’s episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care is Everything You Need to Know About Dilators. Dilators are recommended for many common sexual health conditions. But what are dilators? Who should use them? And most important, do they actually work?
SHE+ #8 Sex Toys for Every Situation
Over decades of experience in the ordering room, with women disclosing their most intimate sexual health concerns, has taught me one thing- there’s a sex toy for that! On today’s episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we are exploring sex toys for every situation.
SHE+ #7 Focus Area: Libido and Desire
It is common for our libido and desire to wax and wane as we move through different phases of life. Day-to-day changes in libido are expected as we navigate stress, family life, work, even a pandemic. But what happens when sexual desire is absent for a long, extended period and our libido is nowhere in sight? On today’s episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we explore libido and desire.Founder &
SHE+ #6 Intimacy-Related Sexual Dysfunction After Cancer Treatments
Many women diagnosed with cancer do not receive information about how cancer treatment will affect their sexual health, despite increasing calls for sexual health to be a part of routine cancer care. Sadly, many women navigating survivorship will receive no treatment plan for sexual dysfunction. On today’s episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we are exploring Intimacy-Related Sexual Dysfunction After
SHE+ #5 The Impact of Perimenopause and Menopause on Sexual Health
By 2025, over 1 billion women worldwide will experience menopause. That is 12% of the entire world population of 8 billion. And yet, this transition in life is still not discussed, leaving many women unprepared for the inevitable change. On today’s Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we explore the impact of perimenopause and menopause on sexual health. PBF Founder Patty Brisben is joined by Dr. Cheryl Igle
SHE+ #4 Vulvovaginal Pain Disorders
It is estimated that 28% of American women will experience chronic vulvar pain or pain with penetration before age 40. And most women who suffer from vulvovaginal pain disorders will see 7 doctors before receiving a diagnosis. On today’s episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we discuss vulvovaginal pain disorders.
SHE+ #3 The C-Spot
Dr. Ernst Grafenberg, who studied the female orgasm and developed the first widely used IUD, is probably best known for identifying an erotic zone on the anterior wall of the vagina that can be stimulated for pleasure- better known as the G-Spot. But did you know that not everyone agrees there is a G-spot? Dr. Cheryl Iglesia and Dr. Christine Vaccaro discuss female anatomy, the wondrous clitoral c
SHE+ #2 Libido & Desire
Many women will experience a lowered libido at some point in their lives, the reality is that there is no such thing as a “normal” sex drive. This can lead to a lot of confusion for women wondering if this is just a phase they are going through or if the issue is a persistent concern that needs to be addressed. To help clear up the confusion, on today’s episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care we are disc
SHE+ #1 Back to Basics
Before we can talk about specific sexual health issues, we need to understand what sexual health is, why it’s important, and how sex positivity is related. Patty and the PBF Medical Advisory Board discuss these important topics, and delve into the 6 focus areas of the Foundation as well as a quick overview of our annual grant cycle. In our inaugural episode, your founder & host, Patty Brisben,
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