Better Sex 343: Sex after Prostate Cancer Treatment with Dr. Jennifer Valli
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman talks with Dr. Jennifer Valli about the impact of prostate cancer and its treatments on sexual health. Dr. Valli shares insights from her personal and professional experiences, emphasizing the lack of information patients often receive about sexual health post-treatment. They discuss the physical and psychological impacts of prostate treatments like prostatectomy and radiation, and the importance of early and consistent penile rehabilitation to maintain and possibly regain sexual function. The episode also delves into practical advice for men and their partners to adapt to changes in their sexual relationships, including tips on dealing with incontinence, changes in orgasm, and how to maintain connection and pleasure. Dr. Valli highlights the importance of communication and exploring new ways to experience intimacy.
00:00 Introduction to Better Sex Podcast
00:47 Guest Introduction: Dr. Jennifer Valli
01:00 Impact of Prostate Cancer Treatments on Sexual Health
02:24 Challenges Men Face Post-Treatment
05:31 Desire, Arousal, and Orgasm Post-Prostatectomy
08:49 Radiation vs. Prostatectomy: Differences in Impact
16:24 Penile Rehabilitation: Methods and Importance
17:53 Practical Tips for Penile Rehabilitation
23:20 Resources and Support for Men
24:46 Mid-Show Break: How to Get Help
25:16 The Long Road of Rehab
25:32 Awareness and Communication in Prostate Cancer Rehab
26:43 Importance of Early and Consistent Penile Rehab
27:53 Managing Incontinence and Sexual Function
30:28 Psychological Aspects of Sexual Dysfunction
37:54 Partner Support and Communication
47:15 Final Thoughts and Resources
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Bio:
Jennifer Valli, PhD, is a seasoned psychotherapist with 30 years of clinical experience in psychiatry. She is a licensed therapist in Tennessee and is nationally certified as a Sex Therapist through AASECT, the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists, a rigorous credentialing program in sex therapy. A portion of Dr. Valli’s AASECT training was completed with faculty from Johns Hopkins University in the area of paraphilias and fetishes. In 2014, she completed a comprehensive post-graduate program in sex therapy at the University of Michigan. She holds a PhD in Clinical Sexology and, as a lifelong learner, earned a second doctorate from the University of Southern California focused on Macro Social Change, Innovation, and Social Work. Dr. Valli is an Assistant Professor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and a proud member of both the Urology and OB-GYN departments. She has delivered national presentations on sex after cancer for the American Society of Breast Surgeons Foundation, SMSNA, and OUTCARE, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of care for medical providers working with LGBTQ+ patients. She is so grateful to be with us today.
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More info and resources:
Secret Podcast for the Higher Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/hdppodcast
Secret Podcast for the Lower Desire Partner: https://www.intimacywithease.com/ldppodcast
How Big a Problem is Your Sex Life? Quiz – https://www.sexlifequiz.com
The Course – https://www.intimacywithease.com
The Book – https://www.sexwithoutstress.com
Podcast Website – https://www.intimacywithease.com
Access the Free webinar: Intimacy Made Easy: 3 Secrets to Bridging Libido Differences: https://intimacywithease.com/masterclass