60: Perimenopause as Your Sexual Debut: Rewriting the Narrative with Taylor McConnachie

Episode Overview: What if perimenopause wasn't the end of your sex life—but the beginning of something completely new? In this honest, educational conversation, Kristen sits down with psychotherapist and sex therapist Taylor McConnachie to talk about what's really happening to your body, your desire, and your voice during perimenopause.

What You'll Learn:

• Why perimenopause can be a "sexual debut"—a chance to completely transform how you experience pleasure
• How the non-linear model of sexual response explains why your desire has changed (and why you're not broken)
• What pleasure mapping is and how to rediscover what feels good in your changing body
• Why that "bullshit meter" you're suddenly feeling is actually a gift—and how to use it
• The role of differentiation in maintaining sexual connection while honouring your individual experience
• Practical tools like lube, sex toys, and new ways of communicating about sex

About Taylor McConnachie: Taylor McConnachie is a registered psychotherapist, AASECT-certified sex therapist, and certified sexologist. She's the founder of Embodied Sexual Wellness and Psychotherapy, with a physical practice in Simcoe, Ontario, supporting people across the province with sex therapy, pelvic pain support, and sexual wellness education. Taylor's own experience with endometriosis and sexual pain drives her passion for creating safe, shame-free spaces to talk about sex and sexuality.

Key Topics Covered:

• Sexual pain and pelvic health during perimenopause
• Medical gaslighting and being told "you're too young" for perimenopause
• Body changes, weight gain, and shifting self-image
• Vaginal dryness and arousal changes
• Finding your voice and setting boundaries during midlife
• The connection between caregiving roles and sexual desire

Connect with Taylor: Instagram: @embodiedsexualwellness Website: embodiedsexualwellness.com

Resources Mentioned:

• Climax Conference (Ottawa, November)
• Non-linear model of sexual response

Visit blueberrytherapy.ca to learn more about pelvic health support in Hamilton, Ontario.

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Connect with The Hole Shebang on Instagram: @blueberrytherapypelvichealth