Better Sex 303: Tackling Gender Gap in Sexual Dysfunction Treatment with Dr. Maria Sophocles
In this episode of the Better Sex Podcast, host and sex therapist Jessa Zimmerman engages in a comprehensive discussion with Dr. Maria Sophocles, an OB GYN specialized in menopause and women's sexual health. They explore the often neglected topic of sexual health during menopause, debunk myths, and recommend safe, effective treatments like vaginal estrogen. The conversation touches on the societal stigmas surrounding women's sexual health, the importance of communication between partners, and strategies to maintain intimacy and pleasure. Dr. Sophocles also highlights the need for better medical education on menopause and offers practical advice on using lubricants and testosterone therapy to enhance sexual well-being during midlife.
00:00 Introduction to Better Sex
00:50 Discussing Menopause with Dr. Maria Sophocles
02:03 The Importance of Addressing Sexual Health
08:42 Understanding the Bedroom Gap
16:31 Challenges in Medical Education and Sexual Health
19:09 Misconceptions About Estrogen Therapy
20:35 The Financial Benefits of Estrogen Therapy
21:04 Maintaining Genital Health with Vaginal Estrogen
22:11 The Role of Lubricants in Sexual Health
23:54 Communicating About Sexual Health in Midlife
24:24 Rehabilitating Vaginal Tissue
26:45 Addressing Trauma and Therapy in Sexual Health
27:41 The Importance of Communication in Sex Therapy
29:23 Enhancing Sexual Desire Through Erotic Media
33:34 Testosterone and Female Libido
34:51 Resources and Final Thoughts
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Bio:
Maria has been a practicing gynecologist for 29 years and is an internationally respected expert in menopause and female sexual function.
She is the founder of Women's Healthcare of Princeton, a progressive gynecology practice serving over 30,000 women in the U.S. To meet the needs of international and remote U.S. patients, in 2024 she launched The Thinking Woman, a virtual consultation practice.
She completed a BA in English with honors and distinction from Duke University, attended medical School at Jefferson Medical College and completed her residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital’s Greater Baltimore Medical Center.
She is board certified in ob/gyn, a certified menopause practitioner, and has been named a fellow to national societies (ISSVD and ISSWSH) for her contributions to gynecology.
As one of the first U.S clinicians to recognize the need for a non-estrogen option to treat vaginal atrophy, in 2015 she pioneered the use of Co2 Laser in the U.S.; she has taught clinicians this technology on five continents.
A passionate advocate for reproductive freedom and contraceptive access, she fought for seven years alongside Senator Shirley Turner to achieve passage of New Jersey Bill S275, a part of the historic Freedom of Reproductive Choice Act which became law in 2023.
Appalled by the pervasiveness of the gendered healthcare gap, she is developing a Women’s Health clinic in rural Kenya.
Her TED talk “What Happens to Sex in Midlife” has garnered nearly a million views and her forthcoming book, The Bedroom Gap will be released in late 2025.
She is currently at work on a documentary about Sex, Menopause and Gender Equality called HOT!.
She is married with four children.
https://www.mariasophoclesmd.com
Instagram: @mariasophoclesmd - https://www.instagram.com/mariasophoclesmd/
TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/maria_sophocles_what_happens_to_sex_in_midlife_a_look_at_the_bedroom_gap?language=en
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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