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Women's sexual health: How to reach sexual fulfillment

Talking about women's sexual health can help bring you and your partner closer together and promote sexual fulfillment. Consider this guide to discussing sexual needs.

By Mayo Clinic staff

Talking about your sexual experiences and desires can be difficult. But considering that women's sexual health can have a ripple effect on your emotional and physical well-being — as well as your relationships — it's a topic worth addressing. Follow this guide to discussing women's sexual health concerns and promoting sexual enjoyment.

How to start talking about sexual needs

It's natural to feel uncomfortable about discussing your sexual experiences and desires, but your partner can't read your mind. Sharing your thoughts about women's sexual health can bring you closer together and help you experience greater sexual enjoyment. To get started:

  • Admit your discomfort. If you feel anxious, say so. Opening up about your concerns may help you start the conversation.
  • Start talking. Once you begin the conversation, your confidence and comfort level may increase.
  • Set a time limit. Avoid overwhelming each other with a lengthy talk. By devoting 15-minute conversations to the topic, you might find it easier to stay within your emotional comfort zones.
  • Talk regularly. Your conversations about sexual experiences and desires will get easier the more you talk.
  • Use a book or movie. Invite your partner to read a book about women's sexual health, or recommend chapters or sections of a book that provoke thought or highlight your questions and concerns. You might also use a movie scene as a starting point for a discussion.

If you still have trouble opening up about your sexual needs or can't resolve an issue with your partner on your own, consider turning to a doctor or sex therapist for help.

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References
  1. AAMFT consumer update: Male sexual problems. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. http://www.aamft.org/families/consumer_updates/malesexualproblems.asp. Accessed Jan. 13, 2009.
  2. AAMFT consumer update: Female sexual problems. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. http://www.aamft.org/families/consumer_updates/femalesexualproblems.asp. Accessed Jan. 13, 2009.
  3. Sexuality and sexual problems. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp072.cfm. Accessed Jan. 13, 2009.
  4. Swanson JB (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 20, 2009.
  5. Love P, et al. Hot Monogamy: Essential steps to more passionate, intimate lovemaking. New York, N.Y.: Penguin Group; 1994.
  6. Leiblum S, et al. Getting the sex you want: A woman's guide to becoming proud, passionate and pleased in bed. New York, N.Y.: Crown Publishing Group; 2002.

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April 2, 2009

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