Advertise on podcast: Sex Care is Self Care

Sex Care is Self Care host Patty Brisben sits down with urologist, menopause expert, and bestselling author Dr. Kelly Casperson to talk about her powerful new book, The Menopause Moment. Together, they unpack why menopause is not a medical footnote, but a pivotal moment in women’s health, pleasure, and autonomy. In this conversation, Patty and Dr. Casperson explore the myths and misinformation that have shaped how menopause is treated, how shame and silence impact care, and what it means to reclaim agency over our bodies as we age. They also discuss the significance of the FDA’s removal of black box warnings on vaginal estrogen, why that decision matters for patient safety and access, and how evidence-based care can radically improve quality of life. This episode is both practical and affirming, grounded in science, lived experience, and the belief that sex care is self care at every stage of life. https://www.sheplusfoundation.com/ https://kellycaspersonmd.com/the-menopause-moment-book/

What happens when women’s pain is ignored, dismissed, or mislabeled as “all in your head”? In this episode, Patty Brisben sits down with writer, comedian, and filmmaker Bonnie Gross, creator of the award-winning film Lady Parts, inspired by her own journey through years of misdiagnosis, medical gaslighting, and ultimate healing. Part heartfelt and part hilarious, Lady Parts flips the script on shame and silence around women’s health—encouraging open conversations between patients, parents, and providers about bodies, pleasure, and pain. Patty and Bonnie explore what it means to advocate for yourself in a system that often doesn’t listen, how laughter can be medicine, and why saying “vagina” out loud matters. Learn more about the film, screenings, and resources at www.ladypartsfilm.com. Learn more about the SHE+ Foundation and its work advancing women’s sexual health at www.sheplusfoundation.com. Presented by the SHE+ Foundation because sex care is self care, and every woman deserves to be heard. Episode Sponsored by Marca 360 & Pure Romance. https://bonnie-gross.com/ https://ladypartsfilm.com/ https://www.imdb.com/title/tt21423506/ https://letterboxd.com/film/lady-parts-2024/

"An educated patient is the best patient." - Dr. Rachel Rubin  In this episode, SHE+ President and Chairwoman Patty Brisben sits down with Dr. Rachel Rubin, a board-certified urologist and sexual medicine specialist. As a pioneer in the field, Dr. Rubin brings unmatched attention and expertise to conditions that impact so many women, and for too long, went without a name: Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation (GSL) and Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).  Dr. Rubin breaks down why naming these conditions matters, how symptoms manifest, and what patients and providers can do to move past dismissal and toward better care.  For more information on GSL, GSM, and Dr. Rubin, check out the Resource Hub at www.sheplusfoundation.com/resourcehub 

Join host Patty Brisben in this powerful conversation with Dr. Jocelyn Fitzgerald - Double Board-Certified Urogynecologist and OB/GYN & Gynecologic Economics (#GynEconomics) Expert!  Did you know that a four-hour endometriosis excision surgery will be reimbursed less financially than a 30-minute orthopedic surgery?  Together, Dr. Fitzgerald & Patty Brisben dive deep into #gyneconomics - and how hospitals make decisions that impact their bottom line, and restrict access for women's reproductive health. https://www.sheplusfoundation.com/

In this episode, members of the SHE+ Foundation Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Christine Vaccaro & Dr. Cheryl Iglesia, join SHE+ Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben for a dialogue on the current state of women's sexual health.  Together, they explore the real-time impact of federal policy shifts on clinical care, barriers to surgical access, and how patients can protect their health in uncertain times. From the OR to Instagram, they’re breaking down complex issues with clarity and compassion. Learn more at sheplusfoundation.com

In this episode, members of the SHE+ Foundation Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Karen Connor & Dr. Stan Althof join SHE+ Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben for a thoughtful dialogue on the current state of women's sexual health.  They explore how changes in federal policy, research funding, and medical education are shaping the future of women’s sexual health. With insights on pelvic floor therapy, mental health, and the gap between evidence-based research and clinical training, this conversation offers vital takeaways for patients, providers, and advocates alike. Learn more at sheplusfoundation.com

In this episode, members of the SHE+ Foundation Medical Advisory Board, Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg & Dr. Anita Mikkilineni (loving called by her patients, "Dr. Mickey") join SHE+ Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben for a heartfelt dialogue on the current state of women's sexual health.  Together, they discuss the evolving landscape of sexual and reproductive healthcare, the impact of federal policy changes, and the future of menopause care—including hormone therapy, research gaps, and patient advocacy. This timely conversation offers insight into how clinicians and patients can navigate a rapidly shifting healthcare environment—and why sexual health must remain a priority. Learn more at sheplusfoundation.com

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Sex Care Is Self-Care, host Patty Brisben sits down with two remarkable women: marriage and family therapist Lauren Brisben Hueber (MS, MFT) and attorney and survivor-advocate Sarah Klein (JD).  Together, they explore the complex realities of sexual trauma, the lasting effects it can have on physical and emotional health, and the path toward healing and justice.  Lauren shares clinical insights from her work as a licensed marriage and family therapist, including how trauma rewires the brain, why survivors often freeze, and how symptoms like hypersexuality, pain, or emotional disconnection are often misunderstood.  Sarah opens up about her own experience as one of Larry Nassar’s earliest known survivors and how it shaped her work representing others who have endured sexual abuse.   With honesty, vulnerability, and strength, the conversation covers: What trauma really is — and how it lives in the body.  This is more than a podcast episode. It’s a message of validation, empowerment, and community for survivors and anyone who supports them.   Learn more about the SHE+ Foundation: https://www.sheplusfoundation.com/   If you or a loved one is experiencing sexual violence, resources are available at  RAINN: https://rainn.org/resources   National Sexual Violence Resource Center: https://www.nsvrc.org/

In this episode of "Sex Care is Self-Care," Founder of the SHE+ Foundation Patty Brisben welcomes special guest, Sarah Klein, renowned attorney and advocate for survivors of CSA and sexual violence. Sarah shares her personal experience as a survivor of abuse at the hands of Dr. Larry Nassar, and discusses her vital work representing survivors in court. The conversation addresses the critical question, "how can parents talk to their kids about sexual health?" The answers could not be more important. Patty and Sarah discuss how parents can and should talk to their children about their bodies, setting boundaries, and staying safe. Sarah provides practical, actionable advice for starting these conversations early, using correct terminology, and creating a safe space for open communication. This is a must-listen for all parents and caregivers. Learn more about the SHE+ Foundation: https://www.sheplusfoundation.com/ If you or a loved one is experiencing sexual violence, resources are available at RAINN: https://rainn.org/resources National Sexual Violence Resource Center: https://www.nsvrc.org/

On this episode of Sex Care is Self Care, SHE+ Foundation Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben sits down with Dr. Kelly Casperson - a urologist, sex-pert, and author of the book, "You Are Not Broken: Stop Should-ing All Over Your Sex Life."  We're so grateful that Dr. Kelly took the time to sit down with us! The book is phenomenal - you can find it on the SHE+ Resource Hub at www.sheplusfoundation.com/resourcehub

On this episode of Sex Care is Self Care, Founder and Chairwoman Patty Brisben is joined by three wonderful women who have been impacted by Endometriosis; Erin Harris, member of the SHE+ Board of Directors, Jessica Dunham, Art Director at Cincinnati Magazine, and Talia Brisben, a college student, and Patty's Granddaughter.    Dr. Christine Vaccaro joins as well to provide the medical perspective on Endometriosis.    If you want to learn more about Endometriosis, you can visit the SHE+ Foundation Resource Hub at www.sheplusfoundation.com/resourcehub

In Episode 43 of Sex Care is Self Care, Patty is joined by Lauren Hueber - a licensed marriage and family therapist at Clermont Mental Health, and her daughter.  As Lauren said, “The reality is, yes it’s hard to seek help, but I think what’s even more challenging, though, is admitting that you need it.”  Want to learn more? Lauren wrote a blog for SHE+ as well - read it here: https://www.sheplusfoundation.com/post/trauma-and-sexual-health-part-one

We have rebranded! The Patty Brisben Foundation for Women's Sexual Health is now the SHE+ Foundation!  Get ready to hear from our founder, Patty Brisben, about the rebrand, how the SHE+ Foundation is ready to meet the moment, and how YOU can get involved.  Joining Patty Brisben today is Development Director at the SHE+ Foundation, Bri Ledsome, asking questions submitted by you on Instagram Live, and the NEW website, www.sheplusfoundation.com. 

Kegels? Overhyped or necessary exercise? Why pelvic floor function is a whole-body movement. Today we're diving into the age-old debate: are Kegels essential or exaggerated? Get ready to explore why pelvic floor function is more than just isolated exercises---it's a whole-body movement. We'll be answering your questions, from common conditions women face to the role of pelvic floor physical therapy in enhancing your overall well-being. It's a pleasure to introduce Dr. Karen Connor, a distinguished pelvic health clinical specialist from University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and a member of our Medical Advisory Board.  Dr. Connor not only comprehends the transformative effects of pelvic floor physical therapy, but also recognizes the significance of pelvic health in enhancing women's well-being. Dr. Connor, your passion for normalizing conversations about the pelvic floor and sexual function is truly inspiring.

Sexual dysfunction can be a source of anxiety and shame for the person suffering, but it can also take a toll on their relationship. The inability to perform may make a person feel as if they are broken and can no longer be a good sexual or relationship partner. Today, Dr. Stan Althof and Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg will help us understand how to navigate a partner’s sexual dysfunction and support them through the process.