Taboo to Truth: Life & Sex After 508 Jul 2025

Is Painful Sex Normal? The Bedroom Gap Explained by Dr. Maria Sophocles | Ep. 101

In this episode I’m joined by Dr. Maria Sophocles to break the silence around painful sex, vaginal atrophy, menopause, and the damaging scripts of ‘duty sex’. Dr. Sophocles shares:

Why so many women endure painful sex silently
The difference between vaginal atrophy, vulvodynia, and other causes of pain
How treatments like vaginal estrogen, lubricants, and dilators can help
Why sexual pain should never define your worth as a partner
The importance of communication with doctors and partners
Her upcoming documentary HOT! exploring midlife women’s sexuality
Her personal definition of sex: joy, curiosity, and humor

This episode is a must-listen for any woman wanting to understand her body, break free from shame, and embrace a sex life defined by her own needs and desires.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro & Guest Welcome

02:10 – The Reality of Painful Sex Globally

05:50 – Dr. Maria Sophocles’ Work & TED Talk Impact

09:20 – Mercy Sex, Duty Sex, and The Bedroom Gap

14:00 – Why Women Feel Obliged to Endure Pain

17:50 – Common Causes of Painful Sex in Midlife

21:40 – Treatments: Vaginal Estrogen, Lubricants, Dilators

26:10 – How To Talk To Your Doctor About Sex

31:30 – Communicating With Your Partner About Pain & Pleasure

38:00 – The Importance of Sexual Check-Ins

43:20 – Dr. Sophocles’ Upcoming Documentary HOT!

47:10 – Her Personal Definition of Sex

49:00 – Closing Thoughts & Next Steps

Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases.

This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider.

Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here:

Email: karen@taboototruth.com

Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast

About the Guest:

Dr. Maria Sophocles has been a leader in women's healthcare for nearly 30 years, specializing in menopause management and female sexual health. She founded Women’s Healthcare of Princeton, a progressive gynecology practice, and has been a visiting professor and NIH researcher in Switzerland. A board-certified ob/gyn and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, she has pioneered innovative treatments, including CO2 laser therapy for vaginal atrophy. She serves as CMO of EMBR Labs, Director of Women’s Health Services for Curia Health, and is an advocate for women’s health policy. Dr. Sophocles is also an author, TEDWomen2023 speaker, and frequent media contributor on women's health topics.

Connect with Dr. Maria Sophocles:

Website: https://mariasophoclesmd.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariasophoclesmd

Karen Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases.

This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider.

Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here:

Email: karen@taboototruth.com

Website: https://www.taboototruth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruth

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcast

Take control of your pleasure with my Pleasure Playbook, filled with tips to help you connect with your body and enhance intimacy. Download it now at www.taboototruth.com/pleasureplaybook.

Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today’s discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don’t miss out!

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