A good place to start talking to your healthcare provider is by making an appointment. This might be a challenge for you, but it’s a challenge I suggest you take up with vigor.

Studies have shown that women often don’t feel comfortable talking to their physicians about sexuality. Many of us were not socialized to feel comfortable talking about sex, feeling that it is not proper or polite.

Physicians themselves may have a hard time bringing up sexual topics, according to research. So as a consumer, you have to take the driver’s seat in bringing up your questions about changes in your sexual functioning, even if you feel shy about doing so.

I suggest that before your appointment, you write down your concerns and your ideas. Take this list with you into the physician’s office. This can help you stay focused and on track even if you feel a little intimidated having the conversation.