474: Interview with Relationship Expert Colette Fehr: Sex and Menopause
Jan 10, 2025
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Colette Fehr, a certified EFT therapist and co-host of 'Insights from the Couch,' dives into the often-taboo topic of sex and menopause. She discusses the biological, emotional, and physical impacts of menopause on intimacy and emphasizes the importance of open communication between partners. Debunking menopause myths, Colette explains how couples can support one another and even enjoy outstanding intimacy during this life stage. Her insights empower listeners to navigate this transition positively, keeping the romance alive.
Menopause encompasses a significant life phase with hormone fluctuations that impact both physical and emotional health, requiring informed discussions.
Changing societal narratives around menopause can empower women, highlighting it as a time for personal growth and the potential for fulfilling sexual experiences.
Deep dives
Understanding Menopause and Its Phases
Menopause is technically defined as a single day, specifically the year after a woman’s last period, but it encompasses a broader phase of life, including perimenopause, which can begin as early as 37 years old. This transitional period includes hormone fluctuations that can affect both physical and emotional health. Many women experience changes in estrogen and testosterone during this time, leading to a variety of symptoms, and understanding these changes is critical for both men and women. Recognizing that women may spend up to 40% of their lives in this stage highlights the importance of education and open discussions about what menopause means and how to navigate it.
Challenging Societal Narratives
Traditionally, societal attitudes have marginalized menopause, framing it as a decline into invisibility for women, which perpetuates a negative narrative around aging and sexual vitality. However, there's a growing movement to redefine menopause as an opportunity for empowerment and personal growth, suggesting that this stage can lead to increased fulfillment and happiness. The historical lack of research and funding for women’s health issues, particularly in menopause, contrasts sharply with the attention given to men's sexual health, underscoring the need for broader awareness and study in this area. Changing the narrative surrounding menopause is essential for fostering a positive self-image for women as they age.
The Role of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been a controversial topic, with many women experiencing symptoms dismissed or misdiagnosed due to lack of knowledge. Newer research challenges previous misconceptions regarding the risks of HRT, especially concerning cancer, revealing that properly managed therapy can improve quality of life and reduce symptoms associated with menopause. It is critical for women to understand their hormonal health and advocate for appropriate testing and treatment options. Empowerment through education on HRT enables women to make informed decisions that can significantly enhance their overall well-being.
Emotional and Sexual Well-being
The transition through menopause can significantly impact relationships and sexual intimacy due to changes in libido and physical comfort. Open communication regarding these changes between partners is vital to maintaining connection and satisfaction in the relationship. As women grow more comfortable in their skin and focus on their needs, many find that their sexual experiences can improve, contradicting the myth that menopause signals the end of sexual desire. Recognizing the evolving dynamics in intimate relationships during menopause can lead to deeper connections and renewed satisfaction for both partners.
In this episode, we sit down with Colette Fehr, a relationship expert, to dive deep into all things menopause and sex! Colette is a certified EFT therapist, and co-host of the podcast 'Insights from the Couch-Mental Health at Midlife.' Colette shares her extensive knowledge on the biological, emotional and physical effects of menopause and how couples can navigate challenges together. She debunks menopause myths and ways partners can support one another during this phase. Colette shares that not only can couples in this stage make it through but can have the BEST sex of their lives! Make sure you download this episode and share it with your partner. You'll take away knowledge and actionable tips to improve your sex life in midlife. To learn more about Colette head to https://www.colettejanefehr.com and listen to your podcast insightsfromthecouch.org anywhere you stream. Colette's perspective is one you won't want to miss! Tune in for a conversation full of wisdom, real-life experiences, and thought-provoking ideas. Keep it hot y'all!
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