All About Sexual Health: Series Of Interviews

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the often misunderstood and stigmatized topic of erectile dysfunction (ED) with Dr. Barbara, a  renowned expert in the field. Dr. Barbara provides comprehensive insights into the causes, treatments, and psychological impacts of ED, emphasizing the importance of education and communication in managing this condition.

This episode features the incredible Dr. Barbara Bartlik, MD, who is rated one of New York Magazine's Best Doctors in Psychiatry and is a recognized expert clinician and author in integrative medicine, psychiatry, and sex therapy. She is a co-editor of Integrative Sexual Health (2018), a volume in the [Dr. Andrew] Weil Integrative Medicine Library, Oxford University Press and Medical advisor to the book Extraordinary Togetherness: A Woman's Guide to Love, Sex, and Intimacy. Barbara has been in private practice in Manhattan for over 30 years and treats men, women, and couples with psychiatric and sexual problems. Dr. Barbara also taught medical students at New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell for decades. She has been featured in The New York Times, Forbes, Glamour, New York Magazine, NBC News, and ABC News on Sexual topics.

Key highlights from this episode:

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Dr. Barbara explains what erectile dysfunction is and the common causes, including physical and psychological factors. The distinction between occasional erectile issues and chronic erectile dysfunction is clarified.Medical and Lifestyle Interventions: Various treatment options are discussed, from medications like Viagra to lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. The importance of seeking professional medical advice for personalized treatment plans is highlighted.Psychological and Emotional Aspects: Dr. Barbara addresses the emotional toll ED can take on individuals and their relationships. Tips on how to maintain open communication with partners and reduce the stigma associated with ED are shared.Role of Education and Support: Emphasis on the role of self-education and awareness in managing ED. Encouragement for partners to support each other and seek information together.

Keep the Flames Alive After Menopause: Dr. Barbara emphasizes that women should stay sexually active post-menopause. While many might shut down, when sexual health is improved,  it's entirely possible to boost libido through various means—nutritional supplements, technological devices, and mindfulness all play a role.Initiate and Maintain a Sexual Relationship: Dr. Barbara encourages women to take charge and initiate sexual encounters, even if they don't initially feel like it. Once you get into the rhythm, the benefits are immense. Regular orgasms release neurotransmitters that are like a brain cleanse, fighting depression and contributing to overall mental health. Dr. Bartlik helps treat sexual disorders and helps patients that are suffering from sexuality issues. 

"To really get your blood going, and improve your sexual health ,consider circulation-enhancing dishes. Food that's high in Omega-3 fatty acids such as mackerel, salmon and wild salmon are best. "Omega-3 makes your nervous system function better. If someone is suffering from sexual disorders it can be about circuitry. Multivitamins and minerals will help with sexuality issues, too. Both improve neurological function, which contributes to good circulation,'' says Dr. Barbara Bartlik...

"We've known for years that when women tighten their legs as they get aroused, that aids arousal and improves sexual health,'' Dr. Bartlik said. ''In fact, some women need to tense their legs or they can't have an orgasm.''She said the overall effect of Slightest Touch stimulation is ''a kind of warm sexual feeling moving up the woman's legs into her pelvis.''..

People often show up in Dr. Barbara Bartlik’s office ready to bolt from a marriage because they’re bored or are suffering from sexual disorders. Many times sexuality issues affect the marriage. “I tell them that changing partners isn’t going to fix the boredom. I tell them, "make yourself more exciting instead of blaming your partner. Better yet, see if you can find something that you’re both passionate about that you can share,'' says Bartlik..

Dr. Bartlik: Everything you eat has the potential to positively or negatively affect the way your bodily secretions, including sexual fluids, smell and taste. Alcohol, garlic, asparagus, red meat, dairy and broccoli are some of the foods that tend to cause unpleasant odors, while citrusy fruits like pineapple can actually improve (sweeten) the way we smell and taste...

I am all for talking about sex. People think it’s like in the movies, where two people run together without saying a word and just immediately proceed to have mind-blowing sex. Good sex in the real world is not like that. If you can’t talk about it, how is your partner going to know what you want?” says Dr. Bartlik, who is also the coauthor of the book Integrative Sexual Health.

Anti-depressants and sexual dysfunction with psychiatrist + sex therapist Dr. Barbara Bartlik and comedian Andrew Collin! 

We discuss weighing out the pros and cons when it comes to maintaining sexual and mental health, and Dr. Bartlik offers advice for anyone dealing with similar issues. Andrew tells us about his journey with anxiety, depression and medication. We cover the sexual frustration that comes with the loss of orgasms while on SSRIs and how he has learned to cope, with sex positions that work best for him.