In this raw and empowering episode of Perimenopause Simplified, we’re diving into one of the most overlooked, yet powerful ways to support your health in midlife: sex.

From the hormonal magic of oxytocin to the emotional benefits of intimacy, I’ll share how good sex can actually help ease perimenopause symptoms—while also addressing the very real challenges modern couples face when it comes to connection.

I’ll also open up about a dry spell in my own relationship, and how we found our way back to each other. Whether your libido is MIA or you’re craving deeper connection, this episode is for you.

You’ll learn:

• How oxytocin release during sex can lower cortisol and reduce perimenopause symptoms
• Why connection and pleasure are essential forms of self-care in midlife
• The difference between responsive vs. spontaneous desire—and why it matters
• How shame, judgment, and silence impact intimacy in long-term relationships
• Real talk about what happens when couples stop making time for sex
• Simple ways to rebuild emotional and physical connection with your partner

Links mentioned:

The Difference Between Spontaneous and Responsive Sexual Desire

Vanessa Marin Therapy

Sex Talks Book

Vanessa Marin On Mel Robbins

Jake Woodard

Episode 56. Reignite Desire & Skyrocket Pleasure in Midlife with Susan Bratton

Sources:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14675803/

https://drlindseyberkson.com/oxytocin-new-hormonal-kid-clinical-block/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924933810701553

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306987719312575

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23430983/

To connect with Claudia Petrilli:

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Website

FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes

FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist

WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method

BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session

HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap

QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com

Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!

In this episode of Perimenopause Simplified, Claudia dives deep into vaginal health during midlife, an often overlooked but essential part of overall well-being. Learn how hormonal shifts impact vaginal tissue, pH, and infection risk, and get practical, evidence-based solutions to support comfort, confidence, and intimacy. Whether you're experiencing dryness, odor, or recurring UTIs, this episode breaks down both hormonal and non-hormonal tools that can help you feel like yourself again.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How declining estrogen affects vaginal tissue, moisture, and pH balance
• Why changes in pH can increase UTIs, bacterial vaginosis, and yeast infections
• The benefits and safety of vaginal estrogen for all women
• Non-hormonal options like DHEA, hyaluronic acid, and clean OTC products
• Key nutrients and supplements that support blood flow and tissue health
• How vaginal rejuvenation tools (like medical vibrators) improve circulation and elasticity

Links mentioned:

Ep. 62: Perimenopause + Your Pelvic Floor: Fix Leaks, Pressure & Pain w/ Christina Walsh, PT

Dr. Rachel Rubin

EWG Skin Deep

Glow Below

Nitric Oxide

Foria Wellness

Joylux Red Light

Mv.health

Sources:

Nitric Oxide Study

Vitamin E Study

To connect with Claudia Petrilli:

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Website

FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes

FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist

WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method

BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session

HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap

QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com

Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!

On this week’s episode of Perimenopause Simplified, Claudia is joined by Christina Walsh, a New Orleans mama of two, physical therapist, published researcher, and cofounder of Tighten Your Tinkler–a pelvic floor rehab method designed specifically for women.

Christina knows firsthand what it’s like to live with pelvic floor dysfunction–and how to heal naturally, without kegels or invasive devices. Together, we dig into what every woman 35+ needs to know about pelvic floor health in perimenopause.

• What exactly is the pelvic floor and why it matters in your 40s+
• Common symptoms of a weak pelvic floor (i.e. bladder leaks, heaviness, pain, urgency)
• How hormone changes in perimenopause impact your pelvic floor
• The connection between pelvic floor health and intimacy
• Why Christina says kegels aren’t the answer (and what to do instead)
• Simple, non-invasive strategies to restore strength and function—at home

Whether you're dealing with leaks, pressure, prolapse, or pain during sex, this episode is for you!

Website: https://www.tightenyourtinkler.com

Signature Program: Tighten Your Tinkler (Save $50 with coupon code: CLAUDIA)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tighten.your.tinkler/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tightenyourtinkler

Tighten Your Tinkler Quiz

10-minute Decompression Exercise

Squatty Potty

To connect with Claudia Petrilli:

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Website

FREE GIFT: Peri-What?! The Must-Have Guide for Women 40+ Navigating Hormone Changes

FREE GIFT: Perimenopause Daily Checklist

WORK WITH US: The Perimenopause Method

BOOK A CLARITY SESSION: Perimenopause Clarity Session

HRT COURSE: Perimenopause HRT Roadmap

QUESTIONS? EMAIL: claudia@claudiapetrilli.com

Love the show? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star rating, review, and share, so that other women can find this podcast for guidance and support through their perimenopause journey!