Sexual Health Explained: Libido, Desire, Sexual Function & Connection

What is sexual health? What is a “normal” libido? And how do stress, mental health, desire, and relationships affect sexual function? In this episode of Health Recoded, I speak with Teresa Callard-Moore, Ph.D., LISW, CST-S, about sexual health, libido, sexual function, communication, and the differences between men’s and women’s experiences of sexual health. Dr. Callard-Moore is a Certified Sex Therapist/Supervisor and Sexual Addiction Therapist. Together, we break down common misconceptions about sexual health and discuss what healthy sexual function can actually look like. Sexual health is still a topic that many people are uncomfortable talking about. We discuss how libido and desire can vary from person to person, how stress and mental health can affect sexual function, how men and women may experience sexual health differently, and how communication and connection can influence sexual wellbeing. We also discuss responsive desire, the pleasure gap, female anatomy and orgasm, libido, and when it may be helpful to seek support from a qualified sex therapist. Find a sexual health therapist at: https://www.aasect.org Find a sex addiction therapist at: https://www.iitap.com Subscribe to Health Recoded for evidence-based conversations that help you better understand your body, your health, and the science behind how it works. New episodes weekly. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:28 How Has the Conversation Around Sexual Health Changed? 04:18 What Is Sexual Health? 06:38 How Stress Affects Sexual Health 08:34 Is Libido a Myth? 13:38 What Is Responsive Desire? 23:25 Does Libido Decline With Age? 24:25 How Much Does Libido Vary From Person to Person? 26:02 When Should You Be Concerned About Sexual Health? 29:50 Why Are People So Uncomfortable Talking About Sex? 34:09 How to Communicate Sexual Preferences 37:27 What Is the Pleasure Gap? 40:05 Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Sexual Health 44:06 What Is Foreplay? 51:55 How Female Anatomy Affects Orgasm 56:26 How to Safely Explore Sexual Health and Anatomy 58:55 How Sexual Trauma Can Affect the Body 1:03:14 When to Ask for Help With Sexual Health 1:05:23 How to Find a Sex Therapist 1:06:42 What to Prepare for a Sex Therapy Session 1:08:12 When to Seek Help From a Sex Therapist This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for guidance provided by your own medical professional.