I am always searching for new ways of talking about sex, and sexual pleasure. A Ted Talk by sex educator, Al Vernacchio discusses the ways we as an American society talk about sex. He brought up the interesting notion that we often use Baseball as a way of talking about sex and sexual activity as we are simply still not comfortable talking directly about sex. “Home runs, first base, and scoring” are all terms that are from baseball but have somehow become a regular part of how we talk and think about sex. It is as though sex is a competition and there is a “winner” and a “loser.” These terms are usually used by adolescents, but I believe they have become a part of how ideas of sex have been imprinted in our brains, and while most adults may not literally say “ I scored last night” that idea or concept that sex is about scoring (usually for men) is imprinted at a pretty early age, and no doubt lingers in our subconscious. Al Vernacchio suggests a new way of talking about sex, and suggests Pizza. Most people like pizza, there is nothing competitive about it, there are hundreds of options, and eating pizza is associated with sharing, fulfillment and enjoyment. He makes some pretty interesting points!
Sex and Pizza
Nicole Tammelleo, MA, LCSW
Nicole is a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist specializing in sexuality and women’s health. After college she volunteered with the Peace Corps in Cameroon where her interest in empowering women and sexuality started. She has training in trauma informed therapy, dialectic behavior therapy and completed post-graduate training at the William Alanson White Institute in Interpersonal Psychotherapy. Nicole has created a holistic approach to sexuality and believes understanding one's own sexuality is the best place to start.
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A safe and comfortable place to discuss vaginismus
The vaginismus forum at Maze Women’s Health is designed to bring women together. We understand that painful sex, vaginismus treatment, and the subsequent recovery can be sensitive topics, and you should have a safe and comfortable place to voice your experience, opinions, and concerns.
We envision this vaginismus forum as a place for you to introduce yourself, share your personal story, ask questions, and discuss any and all aspects of vaginismus, including our treatment options. We sincerely hope that you find this to be a comfortable place to discuss your struggles and triumphs as you navigate through vaginismus treatment. Talking through these issues with women that have gone through it can make all the difference.



