We are really going to get into it today, and I wouldn't want to be joined by anyone but the unflappable Moira Bradfield. Moira is a specialist in the treatment of recurring vaginal infections and optimal vaginal and genitourinary health, so you know she won't steer us wrong as we dive headfirst into the world of the tasty pussy and destigmatizing the stigmatized.
The taste, look, and smell of our sex organs is such a taboo topic that many have never dared to explore what's normal for us. Instead, all too often, we rely on learning what is "normal" for others. Do you know what you taste, look, and smell like on a typical day? Does your partner? In the beautiful and messy world of sex, we interact with other peoples' microbes, which can play a role in our genital hygiene. But it's so essential for us to get comfortable with what is normal for us because when our vaginal health suffers, so does our experience of pleasure and the enjoyment of sex.
Moira Bradfield, the founder of Intimate Ecology clinical and education services, is a naturopath, acupuncturist, and educator with over 20 years of clinical experience. She has a passion for helping people experience optimal intimate health. Clinically, she has a special interest in recurrent vaginal infections, optimal vaginal and genitourinary health, and genitourinary microbiomes. In addition to her role as a naturopath, Moira has lectured extensively about holistic genitourinary health, educating her fellow practitioners to offer support in an often overlooked area. She's on a mission to improve genitourinary health experiences globally.
In this episode, Moira and I talk about the idea of "normal" versus "common," the ill effects of going overboard on genital hygiene, and the complications that can arise when medical treatment is not offered to partners who are cross-contaminating each other.
Learn how to monitor your genital health, what you need to know in choosing a good lubricant, and ideas on having an open and honest discussion about your sexual health with your partner..
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"When we look at what normal is, it's about what is consistent and comfortable for you in the absence of symptoms." - Moira Bradfield
Show Notes:
- What causes changes in vaginal discharge
- What is a normal amount of vaginal discharge
- What does a fishy odor tell us about vaginal health
- How to diagnose bacterial vaginosis
- When to be concerned about vaginal odor
- How to monitor vaginal health
- What to do if you notice changes in your vagina
- What vaginal changes can we expect during menopause
- What does thrush look like
- How to talk to your partner about STIs
- Does bacterial vaginosis affect men
- How do hormone levels affect vaginal health
- How to choose a lubricant
- Are oil-based lubricants compatible with barrier methods
- Should I brush my teeth BEFORE sex
- Does coffee affect the vaginal microbiome
- How to have safe anal sex
- Is saliva a safe lubricant
- How to enjoy safe oral sex
- When to use the barrier method
- How to have an open conversation with your partner about sexual health
- Can you make your vaginal fluid taste better
"In the absence of other concerning symptoms, I don't think that somebody reporting the taste isn't great is an issue." - Moira Bradfield
Links Mentioned:
- Water-based lubricant compatible with vaginal pH and barrier methods:
- Casein free vegan condoms:
- My Lorals Female dam as underwear
- Flora and Fauna Australia based vaginal dams
Connect with Moira Bradfield:
Facebook | YouTube | Instagram | Intimate Ecology
The discussion continues over on social media follow TalkSex™ with Gabriela Rosa:
"Not everyone presents the same way with the same diagnosis." - Moira Bradfield