Mental health and sexual health are both important. But sometimes, medications that help mental health can negatively affect our sexual health. In today's conversation, we talk about different antidepressants and their potential effects on sexual wellness.

You’ll learn about SSRIs, the most common type of medication prescribed to treat depression and anxiety, can contribute to low libido while other antidepressants can actually boost sex drive! We break down the science behind how these drugs work in the brain by affecting serotonin levels, which play a role in mood, and what to look for when you’re starting one.

We also address some steps you can take if you’re on an SSRI and you wonder if your sexual function is being affected, common myths about antidepressants, and possible side effects including what can happen if someone stops taking them.

We hope this conversation helps you make informed decisions for your mental and sexual health!

Today we're joined by April Patterson, a Physical Therapist who practices in California and specializes in a disorder called PGAD, which stands for Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder.

In today's episode she explains what this disorder is, how it is identified, what symptoms are typically present, and how it is treated.

We loved having this conversation with April as she shared her own personal story, along with how successful treatment greatly impacted her daily life. This episode highly focuses on a specific diagnosis that is often not spoken or clearly identified by physicians because it's uncommon.

We learned so much from her and hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did!

If you are looking for more information from April, take a look at her practice’s website with more information- Whole Body Physical Therapy

Anal intercourse is becoming a more common sexual practice for all people. Arguably, it may have been just as popular in the past, but now it’s being reported and studied more frequently.

While this type of intercourse may be increasing in popularity or at least is being openly talked about in some circles, it still carries either uncertainty over what the experience will be like or a stigma that may make people feel hesitant to add this to their sexual toolkit.

In this episode, we break down articles, explain terms associated with rectal play, and reiterate that anal intercourse is more than just something inside the rectum— it can be a lot more nuanced.

A major takeaway for us in today’s episode is something Larisa often tells her kids: don’t yuck someone else’s yum. Simply, if it is pleasurable and your partner consents, then engage in what feels good to you and add it to your toolbox. And IF you’re ready to explore, take a gradual approach, use LOTS of lubricant, choose to engage with a partner you trust, and ensure open communication with said partner.

Anal sex definitely has its part in our sexual health and is another avenue for pleasure!