282. Libido and The Brain - Midlife Sexual Health

I am back with Caroline Labouchere! Our conversation explores the topic of libido and the factors that can affect it, such as upbringing, education, relationships, and hormones. It emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own thoughts and beliefs about sex and prioritizing a healthy sex life. The discussion also touches on the use of hormones and medications, such as Addyi and Vyleesi, to address low libido. The conversation highlights the complexity of sexuality and the need for a holistic approach to addressing low desire. In this conversation, Dr. Kelly Casperson discusses various topics related to menopause, hormones, and sexual health. She addresses the use of on-demand medications for low libido, the cost of hormone medications, and the difficulty of finding doctors who specialize in menopause and sex medicine. Dr. Casperson also explains how Viagra works and its potential use for women. She emphasizes the importance of education and communication in addressing sexual health issues and provides information on vaginal estrogen and its benefits. The conversation concludes with a discussion on hormone therapy and its relationship to cancer treatment. Takeaways Libido is a complex topic influenced by various factors, including upbringing, education, relationships, and hormones. Understanding and addressing one's thoughts and beliefs about sex is crucial for improving libido. Hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, can play a role in libido and may be used as treatment options. Medications like Addyi and Vyleesi are available for low libido, but they may not work for everyone and can have side effects. Prioritizing a healthy sex life and cultivating novelty and communication in relationships can contribute to a satisfying sexual experience. On-demand medications can be used to address low libido, similar to how Viagra is used for men. The cost of hormone medications can be high, making it difficult for some women to afford them. Finding doctors who specialize in menopause and sex medicine can be challenging. Viagra is a vasodilator that improves blood flow, but it does not directly affect desire or orgasm in women. Vaginal estrogen is a safe and effective treatment for symptoms such as pain with sex and dryness. Hormone therapy can be considered after cancer treatment, depending on the individual's situation and risks. Education and communication are crucial in addressing sexual health issues and advocating for proper care. https://www.instagram.com/carolinelabouchere/ Thanks to our sponsor Sprout Pharmaceuticals. To find out if Addyi is right for you, go to addyi.com/notbroken and use code NOTBROKEN for a $10 telemedicine appointment. See Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide, including Boxed Warning for severe low blood pressure and fainting in certain settings at addyi.com/pi Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health, hormones and life support! www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices