Episode 150: The Great Sex Rescue—Debunking Harmful Messages About Intimacy in Christian Marriage with Sheila Wray Gregoire

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Mar 27, 2025

In a compelling discussion, Sheila Wray Gregoire, author of 'The Great Sex Rescue,' unpacks the myths surrounding sexual intimacy in Christian marriages. Drawing from her research with over 20,000 women, she reveals the damaging effects of viewing sex as an obligation. Sheila emphasizes the importance of mutual satisfaction and reframing intimacy to foster true connection. The conversation also explores how to challenge harmful teachings and prioritize emotional closeness, providing hope and practical wisdom for couples seeking deeper intimacy.

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INSIGHT

The Orgasm Gap and Sexual Pain

Sheila Wray Gregoire's survey of 20,000 evangelical women revealed a 47-point orgasm gap between men and women.
Evangelical women also experience sexual pain disorders at twice the rate of the general population.

INSIGHT

Obligation Sex and Trauma

The belief that women are obligated to have sex on demand increases the likelihood of sexual pain.
Women's bodies may interpret obligation as trauma, hindering intimacy.

INSIGHT

The Importance of Female Arousal

Prioritizing intercourse over female arousal in Christian marriages can negatively impact women's libido long-term.
A woman's first experience with intercourse matters significantly for future sexual satisfaction.

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In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Alison talks with Sheila Wray Gregoire, groundbreaking author of The Great Sex Rescue. They confront harmful misconceptions about sexual intimacy within Christian marriages, amplifying the often-overlooked voices of women.

Sheila shares powerful insights drawn from her extensive research involving over 20,000 Christian women, challenging damaging narratives and revealing startling truths about sexual satisfaction, obligation, and intimacy.

You'll learn:

* The 4 harmful teachings that negatively impact sexual intimacy

* Why “sex as obligation” is so destructive for women

* How to reframe your sex story with your spouse

* Practical steps toward recovering true intimacy

Sheila's compassionate yet bold approach offers hope, clarity, and practical wisdom for those longing to rewrite their sexual stories, reclaiming God's true design for intimacy.

Have a question for Dr. Alison? Leave it here.

Find a full transcript and list of resources from this episode here.

If you enjoyed this episode, you'll love:

Episode 125: Recovering From Purity Culture: Dismantle the Myths, Reject Shame-Based Sexuality, and Move Forward in Your Faith with Dr. Camden Morgante
Episode 126: Restoring Wonder & Play in Intimacy—Navigating Sexual Brokenness, Safety, and Vulnerability with Therapist Sam Jolman

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Music by Andy Luiten

Sound editing by Kelly Kramarik

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