Summary

Heather tackles listener questions in this episode:

1. How to initiate a conversation with a spouse about concerns regarding their use of porn.
2. How much of a pregnancy risk is there when a condom rips during sex?
3. How do sex toys influence men's concept of sexuality?
4. It seems like sex educator and coaches on social media encourage semen retention--why would this be & is it advisable?

Themes Addressed

sex therapist, ethically non-monogamous, support group, porn use, sexual behaviors, desensitization, neural pathways, behavior change, presence, awareness, sexual communication, sexual repertoire, sex addiction, high libido, existential kink

Join my Intro to Internal Family Systems (IFS) workshop https://shorturl.at/eS5rL this Wednesday for the chance to master your emotions, improve your relationships and get hot seat coaching with me!

In this episode, me and Todd Baratz (@YourDiagnonsense on IG) have a very REAL discussion on romantic relationships--the good, the bad and the ugly!

And be sure to check out his new--and very personal--book "How To Love Someone Without Losing Your Mind!" which is out in stores now!

Todd's Book - https://amzn.to/4euSJmp

Todd's IG - https://www.instagram.com/yourdiagnonsense/

🫂Are you non-monogamous or exploring non-monogamy? If so, join Heather's ENM Support Squad Wednesdays at 4pm Eastern starting on July 24th. You can register here --> https://www.eventbrite.com/e/922588806957?aff=oddtdtcreator

🧑‍🎓We are looking for a podcast intern (must be 18+)! Email hello@heathershannon.co if you're interested.

📱Download Heather's new iOS app here: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/heather-shannon-therapist/id6476728826

ABOUT THE EPISODE

Hey, lovely listeners! Today we’re tackling some deeply interesting listener questions about vaginismus, guilty pleasures, and sexual fantasies. Trust me, you don't want to miss this one--my cat even makes an appearance! 🌟🐾

We're chatting about practical strategies for managing vaginismus, letting go of guilt when it comes to pleasure, and exploring when sexual fantasies are helpful and when they're actually preventing connecting with your real life partner. Whether you're on the road or walking your dog, tune in for some enlightening and heartfelt advice. 💫

What You'll Learn:

🌬️ The importance of natural breathing and pelvic floor relaxation.

🌸 Navigating the sensitive topic of vaginismus and its emotional impact.

💭 What to do when you're attracted to your partner in your mind, but not in practice.

🤔 The importance of feeling emotionally safe when it comes to sex.

🪞 The beauty of letting go of shame and fully enjoying your pleasures.

Click play and let's make this episode of "Ask A Sex Therapist" a highlight of your week! 🎧❤️

00:00 Announcements including courses and community forum.

06:14 Difficulty achieving pleasure and anxiety over intercourse.

09:58 Options for treatment for vaginismus and resources.

11:58 Males have diverse sexual preferences and beliefs.

15:43 "Existential Kink" explores embracing and transforming shame.

19:31 Understanding and supporting partner with erectile dysfunction.

22:29 Emotional safety is crucial for libido.

24:28 Difficulty with sex might stem from emotions.

27:32 Free dirty talk guide for podcast listeners.

~~~

GET THE INTIMACY AUDIT FREE MINI COURSE (discover what’s blocking YOUR sex life!)

https://heather-shannon.mykajabi.com/intimacyaudit

APPLY FOR HEATHER’S INTIMACY INFUSION PROGRAM

https://HeatherShannon.co/video-page

HEATHER’S WEBSITE

https://HeatherShannon.co

ASK A SEX THERAPIST INSTAGRAM

https://instagram.com/askasextherapist (Join the podcast’s broadcast channel!)

HEATHER’S INSTAGRAM (new!)

https://instagram.com/SexTherapistHeather

YOUTUBE CHANNEL & VIDEO VERSION OF PODCAST

https://youtube.com/@askasexcoach

SIMILAR EPISODES

• 071: The Top 5 Sex Blockers - https://pod.fo/e/22a9d3
• 079 Listener Q & A - https://pod.fo/e/23dfe4

THEMES EXPLORED

sex therapy, libido, masturbation, sexual intimacy, erectile dysfunction, vaginismus, endometriosis, internal family systems, podcasting course, sexual censorship, non-monogamy, sex education, sexual anxiety, clitoral orgasm, dilator therapy, pelvic floor physical therapy, sexual pleasure, relationship intimacy, fantasy during sex, sexual arousal, shame and stigma, attachment...