The Luminescence Podcast with Schuyler Grant

Libido, GSM & Vaginal Health: WTF Is Happening to My Lady Parts? Part 1 of 2

The Luminescence Podcast with Schuyler Grant

Show Notes

When estrogen starts to decline, the vagina is one of the first places you feel it, and one of the last things women talk about. In this episode, we're going there.

In this episode of the Luminescence Podcast, Schuyler Grant sits down with Dr. Somi Javaid and Dr. Sarah de la Torre — two OB-GYNs who specialize in women's sexual health — plus Elena Brower, who brings the honest, personal perspective we all need.

Together they break down what's actually happening inside the body, from tissue changes and UTIs to libido that's gone quiet and orgasms that feel out of reach.

They discuss:

What genital urinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) actually is — why estrogen and testosterone are essential to vaginal tissue health, sensation, and lubrication, and why this affects nearly everyone

The difference between spontaneous and responsive desire — why most women have always been wired for the latter, and what that means for navigating changes in midlife

How low libido shows up before you even realize hormones are involved — and why your Peloton seat may tip you off first

What happens to fibroids, endometriosis, and PMDD during perimenopause — the changes to expect and what shifts after menopause

The truth about orgasm in midlife — what the data says, what anatomy has to do with it, and why inattention may be the biggest factor

For any woman who wants the real conversation about sexual health in midlife — no awkwardness, no hedging, zero judgment.

For information on our upcoming events, retreats, and to connect with specialists and other women in our online community, visit www.luminescence.health.

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Lube Recommendations:

Foria

Plant-based intimacy oils and arousal products (including CBD options) designed to enhance sensation and relaxation.⁠⁠ https://www.foriawellness.com⁠⁠

Joylux — Let’s Spin

A water-based intimacy gel focused on hydration and comfort, created with women’s hormonal changes in mind. ⁠⁠https://joylux.com⁠⁠

Stripes Beauty — Oh My Glide

An oil-based lubricant formulated with nourishing ingredients like squalane for longer-lasting glide. ⁠⁠https://iamstripes.com⁠⁠

Playground

A gentle, water-based lubricant with a clean ingredient profile and an approachable, modern feel. https://itsplayground.com

Nécessaire — The Sex Gel

A simple, aloe-based intimacy gel designed to support hydration and pH balance. ⁠⁠https://necessaire.com⁠⁠

Maude

Minimal, design-forward lubricants including both water-based and oil-based options.⁠⁠ https://getmaude.com⁠⁠

Überlube

A high-quality silicone-based lubricant known for its long-lasting, ultra-smooth glide.⁠⁠ https://uberlube.com

Try Schuyler's new personalized yoga app: https://schuylergrant.com/app⁠⁠

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