Sex Therapy in Midlife

In this episode of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson speaks with Dr. Rachel Boyle, a sex therapist specializing in perimenopause and menopause. They explore the complexities of women's sexual health, the impact of hormonal changes, and the importance of communication in relationships. Dr. Boyle shares her journey into understanding perimenopause, the effectiveness of EMDR therapy for trauma, and the cultural pressures women face regarding their bodies and sexuality. The conversation emphasizes the need for qualified therapists and the significance of creating safe spaces for women to explore their desires and experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healing and Sexual Health 02:43 Understanding EMDR and Trauma Therapy 05:21 Rachel's Journey into Perimenopause and Menopause 08:09 The Impact of Perimenopause on Relationships 10:58 Exploring Women's Sexual Desire and Pleasure 13:43 Navigating Communication in Sexual Relationships 16:21 The Power of Midlife and Changing Perspectives 18:57 Hormonal Changes and Mental Health 22:01 The Role of Sleep in Trauma and Recovery 24:51 Exploring Desire and Openness to Sex 27:51 Consensual Non-Monogamy and Communication 30:38 The Importance of Safety in Sexual Relationships 33:15 Finding a Qualified Sex Therapist 36:01 Debunking Myths about Women's Sexual Health 38:51 Cultural Pressures and Body Image 41:34 The Complexity of Desire and Sexual Satisfaction 44:28 The Role of Erotica in Sexual Exploration 47:06 Final Thoughts on Relationships and Therapy Takeaways Low libido can be a message rather than a problem. Healing trauma doesn't require reliving it, but releasing it. Perimenopause can last for many years, affecting women's health. EMDR therapy helps process traumatic memories effectively. Women often bear the emotional labor in relationships, leading to stress. Communication about sex is crucial for healthy relationships. Desire for sex can be influenced by hormonal changes and emotional safety. Cultural attitudes towards women's bodies impact their sexual health. Consensual non-monogamy requires clear communication and boundaries. Therapists should be trained in women's sexual health issues. https://www.rachelboyle.com/ To my fellow clinicians: listen to this podcast on Pinnacle to earn CME credit for FREE! -- https://learnatpinnacle.com/education Subscribe: @kellycaspersonmd Dr. Kelly Casperson is a board-certified urologic surgeon, sex educator, and CEO of The Casperson Clinic, specializing in hormones, sexual health, and midlife wellness. This channel is your go-to resource for science-backed insights on intimacy, desire, and thriving in midlife. Through expert advice and candid conversations, Dr. Kelly helps women overcome myths about sexual health, demystify hormones, and create fulfilling relationships. Whether you’re navigating menopause, seeking to improve intimacy, or simply want to prioritize your health, this channel offers practical tips to help you live confidently and vibrantly. If you love the "You Are Not Broken" podcast, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear it! Your support helps more people find this life-changing information — and keeps the conversations we should have been having all along going strong. 🎯 Want more? Check out courses, clinic info, and all things midlife mastery at kellycaspersonmd.com. 📚 Books by Dr. Kelly Casperson: Grab You Are Not Broken: Stop Should-ing All Over Your Sex Life at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, or your favorite local bookstore. https://a.co/d/h8SOIrV And don’t miss Menopause Matters: Science, Hormones, and Mindset for Optimal Longevity — available for pre-order now! Coming September 16, 2025. https://amzn.to/42Y2DrG Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It’s not medical advice and shouldn’t replace talking with your own healthcare team. Always reach out to your doctor or qualified provider with any questions about your health. Use this information at your own risk. #youarenotbroken #drkellycasperson #hormonetherapy Let’s Connect... Website: https://www.kellycaspersonmd.com Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4iZ4pa5... IG: Instagram: kellycaspersonmd FB: Facebook: youarentbroken Threads: https://www.threads.net/@kellycaspers... Substack: https://substack.com/@kellycaspersonmd Subscribe: @kellycaspersonmd