Sex Matters for Women A Complete Guide to Taking Care of Your Sexual Self

by Foley, Sallie; Kope, Sally A.; Sugrue, Dennis P.

• ISBN13: 9781572307001
• ISBN10: 1572307005
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2001-11-02
• Publisher: The Guilford Press

Summary

When it comes to matters of sex, women today are trapped in a reality gap portrayed by the media as confident and fulfilled; yet struggling in everyday life with sexual myths, self-doubt, and "embarrassing" questions. Now women can find the answers they need to take charge of their sexuality both in and outside of the bedroom. This book presents solid, science-based information on the topics that everyone is talking about and those that aren't talked about enough, from how to have more satisfying sex, to questions about hormones, anatomy, STDs, body image, relationships, sexual orientation, and more. Also included are thought-provoking exercises for self-discovery and sexual growth. The book concludes with an extensive listing of suggested books, websites, and organizations. For readers of all ages, this essential reference provides up-to-date advice on the many ways that sex matters in women's lives. [FOR PROFESSIONAL USE, ADD: It will also serve as a useful text in advanced undergraduate and graduate-level human sexuality courses.]

Winner--Society for Sex Therapy and Research (SSTAR) Consumer Book Award

Author Biography

Sallie Foley, MSW, is a certified sex therapist, educator, and supervisor. She is a Senior Clinical Social Worker at the Sexual Health Counseling Services of the University of Michigan, where she is also on the faculty of the Graduate School of Social Work. Recognized for her expertise in couple and sex therapy, she writes and lectures nationally and is frequently interviewed in the media. Sally A. Kope, MSW, is a certified sex therapist, supervisor, and couple counselor in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and serves on the faculty of the University of Michigan Medical School. She has written and lectured widely, and is frequently cited in the media. Dennis P. Sugrue, PhD, a clinical psychologist and Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan Medical School, is the current President of the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists. Dr. Sugrue is an expert in human sexuality who has been featured in media including Ladies' Home Journal, Parents, and Glamour.

Table of Contents

Introduction	1	(8)
PART I. Knowing Your Sexual Story
Every Story Has a Beginning	9	(23)
Adult Sexuality: A Lifelong Story	32	(39)
PART II. Understanding Your Body
Your Body	71	(12)
Sexual Response	83	(16)
Reproduction and Beyond	99	(32)
PART III. Making Peace with Your Body
Body Image	131	(15)
Illness and Disability	146	(16)
When Sex Causes Pain	162	(12)
Sexually Transmitted Diseases	174	(11)
Trauma	185	(16)
PART IV. Creating a Better Sexual Relationship
Male Sexuality	201	(24)
Taking Care of Your Sexual Relationship	225	(26)
PART V. Overcoming Sexual Difficulties
What to Do When Sexual Problems Arise	251	(14)
Overcoming Low Sexual Desire	265	(16)
Overcoming Low Sexual Arousal	281	(21)
Overcoming Orgasm Difficulties	302	(14)
Sex Therapy	316	(5)
APPENDIX. Exercises for Sexual Growth	321	(28)
Ways to Know Your Sexual Story	322	(13)
Ways to Understand Your Body	335	(2)
Ways to Make Peace with Your Body	337	(5)
Ways to Create a Better Sexual Relationship	342	(7)
Suggested Resources	349	(16)
References	365	(2)
Index	367	(9)
About the Authors	376