Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) is a common condition in menopausal women. It is most commonly caused by decreased estrogen levels which affects the vaginal tissue. This tissue becomes thin, pale, dry, friable and inflamed. Women will often complain about vaginal dryness, decreased lubrication and/or pain at the vaginal entrance. Other symptoms include pruritis (itchiness), bleeding, urinary …
Continue ReadingWhat’s the secret to making romantic love last?
Dining and Differentiation What’s the secret to keeping passion alive? There’s no one best answer, and every couple is different. But many therapists, myself included, talk about something called “differentiation” as a key factor. Differentation means being able to take care of yourself, as a separate person, while you’re in intimate dialog with your mate. …
Continue ReadingTopical hormones — keep away from children and pets!
Pediatricians and veterinarians around the country are reporting a strange phenomenon: children are showing signs of premature puberty and spayed dogs and cats (even puppies and kittens) are suddenly becoming hormonal. Although there can be a myriad of factors contributing to this trend, one culprit has concretely been identified- topical hormone transference. Estrogen and testosterone …
Continue ReadingAsk for it.
We had a patient today who told us that her sex life had improved significantly but that sometimes she just wanted more. I pushed her a bit to talk about what “more” was for her and she struggled with the answer. Finally she sighed. “I guess, like, sometimes I want more orgasms.” I looked at …
Continue ReadingCan Wellbutrin improve sexual functioning?
Wellbutrin is in a class of drugs known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or NSRI. It is commonly prescribed as an anti-depressant and well known as a drug that can help people stop smoking. Simply speaking, Wellbutrin works by raising dopamine levels. What many people don’t know is that dopamine levels are closely linked to arousal …
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