Sex Care is Self Care

In this episode, members of the SHE+ Foundation Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Karen Connor & Dr. Stan Althof join SHE+ Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben for a thoughtful dialogue on the current state of women's sexual health. They explore how changes in federal policy, research funding, and medical education are shaping the future of women's sexual health.With insights on pelvic floor therapy, mental health, and the gap between evidence-based research and clinical training, this conversation offers vital takeaways for patients, providers, and advocates alike.Learn more at sheplusfoundation.com

In this episode, members of the SHE+ Foundation Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg & Dr. Anita Mikkilineni (loving called by her patients, "Dr. Mickey") join SHE+ Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben for a heartfelt dialogue on the current state of women's sexual health. Together, they discuss the evolving landscape of sexual and reproductive healthcare, the impact of federal policy changes, and the future of menopause care—including hormone therapy, research gaps, and patient advocacy.This timely conversation offers insight into how clinicians and patients can navigate a rapidly shifting healthcare environment—and why sexual health must remain a priority.Learn more at sheplusfoundation.com

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Sex Care Is Self-Care, host Patty Brisben sits down with two remarkable women: marriage and family therapist Lauren Brisben Hueber (MS, MFT) and attorney and survivor-advocate Sarah Klein (JD). Together, they explore the complex realities of sexual trauma, the lasting effects it can have on physical and emotional health, and the path toward healing and justice. Lauren shares clinical insights from her work as a licensed marriage and family therapist, including how trauma rewires the brain, why survivors often freeze, and how symptoms like hypersexuality, pain, or emotional disconnection are often misunderstood. Sarah opens up about her own experience as one of Larry Nassar's earliest known survivors and how it shaped her work representing others who have endured sexual abuse.  With honesty, vulnerability, and strength, the conversation covers: What trauma really is — and how it lives in the body. This is more than a podcast episode. It's a message of validation, empowerment, and community for survivors and anyone who supports them.  Learn more about the SHE+ Foundation: https://www.sheplusfoundation.com/  If you or a loved one is experiencing sexual violence, resources are available at RAINN: https://rainn.org/resources  National Sexual Violence Resource Center: https://www.nsvrc.org/

In this episode of "Sex Care is Self-Care," Founder of the SHE+ Foundation Patty Brisben welcomes special guest, Sarah Klein, renowned attorney and advocate for survivors of CSA and sexual violence. Sarah shares her personal experience as a survivor of abuse at the hands of Dr. Larry Nassar, and discusses her vital work representing survivors in court. The conversation addresses the critical question, "how can parents talk to their kids about sexual health?" The answers could not be more important. Patty and Sarah discuss how parents can and should talk to their children about their bodies, setting boundaries, and staying safe. Sarah provides practical, actionable advice for starting these conversations early, using correct terminology, and creating a safe space for open communication. This is a must-listen for all parents and caregivers.Learn more about the SHE+ Foundation: https://www.sheplusfoundation.com/If you or a loved one is experiencing sexual violence, resources are available at RAINN: https://rainn.org/resourcesNational Sexual Violence Resource Center: https://www.nsvrc.org/

On this episode of Sex Care is Self Care, SHE+ Foundation Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben sits down with Dr. Kelly Casperson - a urologist, sex-pert, and author of the book, "You Are Not Broken: Stop Should-ing All Over Your Sex Life." We're so grateful that Dr. Kelly took the time to sit down with us! The book is phenomenal - you can find it on the SHE+ Resource Hub at www.sheplusfoundation.com/resourcehub

On this episode of Sex Care is Self Care, Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben is joined by three wonderful women who have been impacted by Endometriosis; Erin Harris, member of the SHE+ Board of Directors, Jessica Dunham, Art Director at Cincinnati Magazine, and Talia Brisben, a college student, and Patty's Granddaughter.  Dr. Christine Vaccaro joins as well to provide the medical perspective on Endometriosis.  If you want to learn more about Endometriosis, you can visit the SHE+ Foundation Resource Hub at www.sheplusfoundation.com/resourcehub

Joining Patty Brisben is Lauren Brisben Hueber, of Clermont County Mental Health.https://www.sheplusfoundation.com/

We have rebranded! The Patty Brisben Foundation for Women's Sexual Health is now the SHE+ Foundation! Get ready to hear from our founder, Patty Brisben, about the rebrand, how the SHE+ Foundation is ready to meet the moment, and how YOU can get involved. Joining Patty Brisben today is Development Director at the SHE+ Foundation, Bri Ledsome, asking questions submitted by you on Instagram Live, and the NEW website, www.sheplusfoundation.com. 

Kegels? Overhyped or necessary exercise? Why pelvic floor function is a whole-body movement.Today we're diving into the age-old debate: are Kegels essential or exaggerated?Get ready to explore why pelvic floor function is more than just isolated exercises---it's a whole-body movement.We'll be answering your questions, from common conditions women face to the role of pelvic floor physical therapy in enhancing your overall well-being.It's a pleasure to introduce Dr. Karen Connor, a distinguished pelvic health clinical specialist from University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and a member of our Medical Advisory Board. Dr. Connor not only comprehends the transformative effects of pelvic floor physical therapy, but also recognizes the significance of pelvic health in enhancing women's well-being.Dr. Connor, your passion for normalizing conversations about the pelvic floor and sexual function is truly inspiring.

Sexual dysfunction can be a source of anxiety and shamefor the person suffering, but it can also take a toll on theirrelationship.The inability to perform may make a person feel as if they are broken andcan no longer be a good sexual or relationship partner.Today, Dr. Stan Althof and Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg will helpus understand how to navigate a partner's sexualdysfunction and support them through the process.

Vulvodynia, chronic pain in the vulva, affects up to 18% of women who experience pressure, burning, itching, and irritation for at least 3 months. In our latest episode of Sex Care is Self Care, Dr. Christine Vaccaro, Dr. Anita Mikkilineni educate us about the symptoms, how to find relief, and possible treatments. Plus a candid conversation on how well-known it is in the medical community and how it can affect relationships. 

Menopause is a natural part of aging, but it can cause a lot of discomfort both physically and emotionally. And, the changes in hormone levels can also drastically affect a woman's sex drive.Today, Dr. Christine Vaccaro, Dr. Rachel Rubin, and Dr. Kelly Casperson will help us understand the symptoms of menopause and how hormone therapy can help.---Kelly Casperson MD www.kellycaspersonmd.comhttps://www.instagram.com/kellycaspersonmd/https://www.facebook.com/youarentbrokenPodcast: You Are Not BrokenApple Link to podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-are-not-broken/id1495710329Book: You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over Your Sex LifeAmazon Link: https://amzn.to/3Gux9hO---Rachel S. Rubin MDUrologist and Sexual Medicine SpecialistAssistant clinical professor in Urology at Georgetown University Hospitale info@rachelrubinmd.comwebsite: rachelrubinmd.com      twitter:@drrachelrubininstagram: @drrachelrubin

Cosmetic Gynecology is quickly becoming one of the fastest growing subspecialties of elective surgery for women. Making physical alterations may help improve the physical appearance of the vulva, but are they safe?Today, Dr. Cheryl Iglesia Dr. Bobby Garcia will help us understand this growing trend and whether it can benefit our sexual health. https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

We see sex depicted every day in tv and movies. Steamy shows can be a guilty pleasure often because we find these characters and their lives relatable. Today, our Medical Advisory Board members Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, Dr. Christine, Vaccaro, and Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg, will talk about our favorite sexy shows and movies and how these shows can help fuel healthy conversations about sex with our partners and even with children and teens.https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Today, Dr. Cheryl Iglesia and Dr. Peggy Ye will help us understand why so many women go without the care they need and what we can do to advocate for more affordable care. For a woman experiencing severe or chronic pain, seeking treatment should be their only concern. Sadly, many women go without the care they need because they can't afford it, and it isn't covered by insurance. https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Sexual intimacy is an important part of any healthy relationship, and understandably, not being able to perform can be a sensitive topic for some men and affect relationships. However, it's important to remember that having trouble getting or keeping an erection doesn't mean that you're not desirable, or that you'll never have good sex again.Welcome to Sex- Care is Self-Care, a conversation on women's sexual health brought to you by the Patty Brisben Foundation for Women's Sexual Health. I'm your host, Patty Brisben.Today's conversation with Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg and Dr. Rachel Rubin will educate and empower men to address erectile dysfunction, improve confidence, and provide partners with ways to enhance satisfaction in their relationships.Learn more and donate: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

More Resources for Pelvic PainVulvar pain: 1) https://www.issvd.org/resources/vulvo... 2) nva.orgBladder pain: 1) https://www.voicesforpfd.org/assets/2...  2)  https://www.voicesforpfd.org/resource... (scroll down to "Interstitial cystitis / bladder pain syndrome) Endometriosis:1) https://www.acog.org/womens-health/fa...Pelvic floor muscle pain: 1) https://www.choosept.com/guide/physic... 2) https://www.apta.org/patient-care/pub...Generalized pain: 1) https://www.asra.com/patient-informat...2) https://www.asahq.org/madeforthismome...Today we welcome Dr. Christine Vaccaro to help us understand more about pelvic pain and to answer your questions on what we can do to help women dealing with chronic pain. 

Infidelity is one of life's most hurtful and difficult experiences to survive, leaving deep emotional wounds in its wake. The resulting suspicion and insecurity can lead couples into a downward spiral that could prove hard to recover from if the issues aren't addressed. It takes time for those affected by betrayal to trust again, but it isn't impossible; with open communication comes hope for joy once more and real intimacy in new relationships down the road.Today, Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg will guide us through the healing process after an affair, and how we can use understanding to repair trust in our relationships and confidence in ourselves. Learn more and donate: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Special guest Dr. Vadim Morozov, Obstetrician-Gynecologist, joins Patty Brisben and the Medical Advisory Board to discuss Endometriosis.Learn more and donate:  https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

10 percent of women have never had an orgasm. For many women, even those who have had orgasms, it's not always easy. And only about a third of women experience orgasm regularly during intercourse. Female sexuality is more complicated than male sexuality, and it involves more effort in order to climax. It also doesn't help that we live in a society where the thought of women being sexual beings is still a foreign idea for some. This thinking can cause shame, especially for women who are trying to have an orgasm through masturbation. But there should be absolutely no shame (ever!) pleasuring yourself and enjoying it.Today we are joined by PBF Medical Advisory Board members Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, Dr. Christine Vaccaro, Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg, Dr. Michael Krychman. and Dr. Kathleen Novicki to talk about the female orgasm, steps you can take if you've never achieved orgasm, and the importance of understanding your body and what makes sex pleasurable for you. Learn more and donate:  https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Chronic vaginal pain with no identifiable cause impacts an estimated six million women. Known as vulvodynia, this condition often goes undiagnosed despite the level of pain that not only makes intimacy difficult but makes daily life a struggle of pain management. The average woman suffering from vulvodynia will see seven doctors before receiving a diagnosis.Today we are here with PBF Medical Advisory Board member Dr. Michael Krychman, and Dr. Andrew London to answer your questions about vulvodynia, and what we can do to help women dealing with this chronic condition.Learn more and donate here:  https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Vaginitis describes various disorders that cause inflammation or infection of the vagina. These can be caused by organisms like yeast or bacteria, or by irritations from chemicals in creams or sprays. Today, we are going to talk about one of the most common causes of vaginitis: yeast infections. We are here today with PBF Medical Advisory Board member, Dr. Michael Krychman, and Barb Dehn, who is a practicing Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, and a nationally recognized health expert. They will be answering your questions about vaginitis, and how a yeast infection can cause this disorder.Learn more and donate here:  https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Uterine Fibroids are tumors made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop in the uterus. It is estimated that 70 to 80% of women will develop fibroids in their lifetime-however, not everyone will develop symptoms or require treatment. For those who do develop symptoms, they can include heavy menstrual bleeding, back pain, frequent urination, and pain during sex.We are here with PBF Medical Advisory Board member, Dr. Michael Krychman, and Dr. Jessica Shepherd to answer all of your questions about fibroids.Learn more and donate here:  https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Many women discover their libido is lacking, especially as they get older. That's not necessarily a problem, as long as you're comfortable with the frequency of your romantic encounters. But it can be frustrating if you miss the urge you once had. Luckily, treatments are available to rev back up your sex life!Today we are joined by PBF Medical Advisory Board members Dr. Michael Krychman, Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg and Dr. Cheryl Iglesia to talk about low libido-from couples with mismatched libidos, medications that may cause it, and how introducing a sex toy can be beneficial. We have all your answers here! Learn more and donate here:  https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

More women than ever are reporting being self-conscious about the way their genitals look. As with many body image woes, the media seems to be a major culprit. Of course, there's nothing wrong with bodies that deviate from the limited depictions we see in the media, but for some, this deviation appears to be a major source of anxiety. Today we are joined by PBF Medical Advisory Board members Dr. Michael Krychman, Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg and Dr. Cheryl Iglesia to talk about cosmetic sexual health-from labiaplasty, laser use and its safety, genital piercing, to other cosmetic concerns. They will help us navigate the safety and efficacy of these methods and share advice for those struggling with self-consciousness relating to their genitals. 

HSDD (Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder) is a sexual dysfunction that can lead to a lowered sex drive. Many people may unknowingly dismiss symptoms of this disorder as a side effect of everyday stressors or aging. So, how do you know if it's time to seek professional help? Dr. Michael Krychman and Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg are here to answer all of your questions about HSDD.

If you're wondering whether you might need a lubricant, the answer is probably yes. There is a common misconception that personal lubricant is only for older women after menopause. While it's a great option in that scenario, there are many benefits that lubricants offer for a variety of ages and genders. Today we are here with PBF Medical Advisory Board member's Dr. Michael Krychman and Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg, as well as Pure Romance's VP of Product Development, Erin Harris, to discuss all things related to personal lubricants and how you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.Learn more and donate here:  https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Sex after 70 has become a hot topic and was even recently featured in the NY Times. Today we talk to PBF Medical Advisory Board members Dr. Christine Vaccaro and Dr. Cheryl Iglesia about sex after 70. Are you ever too old to have sex?Learn more and donate here:  https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Talking to your children about sex can become even more complex and difficult as they enter their teen years. We are here with two PBF Medical Advisory Board members today, Dr. Christine Vaccaro and Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, to discuss the complexities of talking to your teenagers about sex.  Learn more and donate here:  https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Parents often do not know when or how to start talking to their children about sex. The conversation is more than just talking about sexuality, it includes talking about their bodies, relationships, boundaries, love and safety. So, when is the right time and how do you begin the conversation? Two of our Medical Advisory Board members, Dr. Christine Vaccaro and Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, are here to discuss the how-to's of talking to your young children about sex. 

More women than ever before are turning to fertility specialists to help them get pregnant. As many as one in eight couples reportedly struggle to conceive, and a third of Americans have either sought fertility treatment themselves or know someone who has. But how do you know that it's time to seek professional help? Dr. Michael Thomas discusses fertility and improving your chance of pregnancy.

Doctor Michael Thomas, Director of OB/GYN Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility at the UC College of Medicine, has dedicated his career to helping patients, students and the community.As a reproductive endocrinologist, Thomas' research and clinical care focuses on both contraception and fertility. While it may seem counterintuitive to both help people get pregnant and help prevent people from getting pregnant, Thomas argues that it's not. It's just two sides of the same coin.Thomas' contraception work has focused on hormonal birth control but also non-hormonal contraceptives like developing new condoms and intrauterine devices (IUDs). He has also worked on different fertility-related issues from fertility medications to in vitro fertilization (IVF). Thomas is particularly interested in finding ways to make IVF more affordable. Today, IVF is rarely covered by insurance and can cost thousands of dollars out-of-pocket. Thomas' goal is to make becoming a parent more affordable and accessible for all people.https://med.uc.edu/microsites/indispensable/more-stories/michael-thomas-md-uc-college-of-medicineLearn more and donate: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

The PBF's annual grant cycle is at the heart of our mission to advance women's sexual health by funding innovative treatment research for complex sexual health problems. Dr. Shunaha Kim-Fine, from the Society for Gynecologic Surgeons, is a 2021 grant recipient investigating whether standardized counseling regarding the first sexual encounter following pelvic reconstructive surgery improves postoperative preparedness to return to sexual activity and function.Learn more and donate: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

The PBF's annual grant cycle is at the heart of our mission to advance women's sexual health by funding innovative treatment research for complex sexual health problems. Dr. Alexis Dieter, from the Society for Gynecologic Surgeons, is a 2021 grant recipient investigating the use of CO2 laser therapy for a complex and painful condition called lichen sclerosus.

Featuring Dr. Michael Krychman, Chair of the PBF Medical Advisory Board In 2020, an estimated 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer were diagnosed in women in the U.S., as well as 48,530 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer.  Approximately 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. For women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, the 5-year survival rate is 91%.For the over 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, 50-75% will experience persistent sexual dysfunction in the aftermath of cancer treatment. Today, we discuss survivorship for breast cancer patients. Learn more and donate: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

UNICEF estimates that more than 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone female genital mutilation (FGM.) According to a 2016 CDC report, an estimated 513,000 girls and women in the United States were either victims of FGM or at risk of FGM, with ⅓ under the age of 18.  

Featuring Dr. Christine Vaccaro, a member of the PBF Medical Advisory Board.The World Health Organization estimates that about 1 in 3 women worldwide has experienced physical and/or sexual violence. This past year has been especially challenging for victims of physical and sexual abuse, as COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns increased exposure to abusive situations while limiting access to services.  We explore this topic in-depth today.Physical and sexual abuse are major public health problems in the United States. Besides the immediate trauma, many survivors suffer long-term health consequences.   The aftermath of physical and sexual abuse can produce a ripple effect of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and suicide attempts, and other health consequences such as gastrointestinal disorders, substance abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, and gynecological or pregnancy complications. These consequences can lead to hospitalization, disability, or death. Learn more and donate: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Vaginal dryness occurs in women of all ages for a variety of reasons. From medications to menopause to breast cancer- there are many reasons why women experience vaginal dryness and irritation. However, 90% of women will not speak to their doctor about this common concern. Dr. Christine Vacarro, Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, and Dr. Kathleen Novicki discuss Vaginal Dryness 101.  Learn more and donate: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

The Fourth Trimester refers to the twelve-week postpartum period following birth.  In 2018, ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) issued new recommendations for mother and infant postpartum care, recognizing the need to have follow-up care sooner and that care for a postpartum mother be ongoing rather than just a single visit. The postpartum plan should be a part of the conversation during pregnancy, so new mothers have the support they need in place. Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, Dr. Christine Vaccaro, and Dr. Kathleen Novicki discuss the Fourth Trimester. Learn more and donate: https://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Learn more and donate: http://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Urogynecology is a gynecologic specialization that manages clinical problems associated with dysfunction of the pelvic floor and bladder.  Urogynecologists have additional years of fellowship training and certification in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. So what does a urogynecologist do, and why would you need to see one? Dr. Cheryl Iglesia and Dr. Christine Vaccaro, urogynecologists and members of the PBF Medical Advisory Board, discuss everything you ever wanted to know about Urogynecology. Learn more and donate: http://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Today's episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care is Everything You Need to Know About Dilators. Dilators are recommended for many common sexual health conditions. But what are dilators? Who should use them? And most important, do they actually work? 

Over decades of experience in the ordering room, with women disclosing their most intimate sexual health concerns, has taught me one thing- there's a sex toy for that! On today's episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we are exploring sex toys for every situation. 

It is common for our libido and desire to wax and wane as we move through different phases of life.  Day-to-day changes in libido are expected as we navigate stress, family life, work, even a pandemic. But what happens when sexual desire is absent for a long, extended period and our libido is nowhere in sight?  On today's episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we explore libido and desire.Founder & host Patty Brisben is joined by  Dr. Michael Krychman, Chair of the PBF Medical Advisory Board.Learn more and donate: http://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/

Many women diagnosed with cancer do not receive information about how cancer treatment will affect their sexual health, despite increasing calls for sexual health to be a part of routine cancer care. Sadly, many women navigating survivorship will receive no treatment plan for sexual dysfunction. On today's episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we are exploring Intimacy-Related Sexual Dysfunction After Cancer Treatment. Founder & host Patty Brisben is joined by  Dr. Michael Krychman, Chair of the PBF Medical Advisory Board.

By 2025, over 1 billion women worldwide will experience menopause.  That is 12% of the entire world population of 8 billion.  And yet, this transition in life is still not discussed, leaving many women unprepared for the inevitable change. On today's Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we explore the impact of perimenopause and menopause on sexual health.  PBF Founder Patty Brisben is joined by Dr. Cheryl Iglesia.

 It is estimated that 28% of American women will experience chronic vulvar pain or pain with penetration before age 40. And most women who suffer from vulvovaginal pain disorders will see 7 doctors before receiving a diagnosis. On today's episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care, we discuss vulvovaginal pain disorders. 

Dr. Ernst Grafenberg, who studied the female orgasm and developed the first widely used IUD, is probably best known for identifying an erotic zone on the anterior wall of the vagina that can be stimulated for pleasure- better known as the G-Spot. But did you know that not everyone agrees there is a G-spot? Dr. Cheryl Iglesia and Dr. Christine Vaccaro discuss female anatomy, the wondrous clitoral complex, and what they like to call the C-Spot.

Many women will experience a lowered libido at some point in their lives, the reality is that there is no such thing as a “normal” sex drive. This can lead to a lot of confusion for women wondering if this is just a phase they are going through or if the issue is a persistent concern that needs to be addressed. To help clear up the confusion, on today's episode of Sex-Care Is Self-Care we are discussing everything related to libido and desire. Founder & host, Patty Brisben, is joined by members of the Foundation's Medical Board of Directors: Cheryl Iglesia, MD, FACOG, FPMRS; Michael L. Krychman, MDCM; Kathleen Novicki, PT, DPT, PRPC; and Christine Vaccaro, DO, FACOG, FPMRS

Before we can talk about specific sexual health issues, we need to understand what sexual health is, why it's important, and how sex positivity is related. Patty and the PBF Medical Advisory Board discuss these important topics, and delve into the 6 focus areas of the Foundation as well as a quick overview of our annual grant cycle. In our inaugural episode, your founder & host, Patty Brisben, is joined by members of the Foundation's Medical Board of Directors: Cheryl Iglesia, MD, FACOG, FPMRS; Michael L. Krychman, MDCM; Kathleen Novicki, PT, DPT, PRPC; and Christine Vaccaro, DO, FACOG, FPMRShttp://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/