Have you ever wondered why trauma seems to "live" in the body? Or why so many women struggle with sexual dysfunction after difficult childbirth experiences that they're told they should just be "grateful" for?
Join me as we explore the profound connection between trauma and sexual health with Erika Kelley, an award-winning clinical psychologist who specializes in women's sexual medicine and trauma treatment.
Erika Kelley is revolutionizing how we understand and treat the intersection of PTSD and sexual dysfunction. Winner of the prestigious Irwin Goldstein Award at ISSWSH for her groundbreaking research on childbirth-related PTSD, Erika shares insights from her years of experience helping women reclaim their bodies and sexuality after trauma.
Together, we discuss the often overlooked reality of "smiling PTSD" the postpartum trauma that women hide behind societal pressure to appear only joyful after childbirth. Erika explains how trauma becomes physically embedded in the body through the fight-flight-freeze response, creating real physiological changes that impact everything from pelvic floor function to sexual desire.
She also shares the evidence based psychotherapies that are proven to help, including Prolonged Exposure Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy, and how these treatments can be integrated with pelvic floor physical therapy and sexual medicine approaches for comprehensive care.
Erika's commitment to building trust with marginalized communities through community-based participatory research demonstrates how we can address healthcare disparities while advancing trauma care. Her work with Black women and perinatal mental health is paving the way for more inclusive and effective treatment.
This episode is essential listening for anyone who has experienced trauma, healthcare providers who work with trauma survivors, and anyone interested in understanding how our bodies truly do "keep the score." By listening, you'll gain crucial knowledge about recognizing trauma symptoms, accessing appropriate treatment, and advocating for yourself or your patients.
TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault, traumatic childbirth experiences, medical trauma, PTSD symptoms, and obstetric complications. Please listen with care and reach out for support if needed.
Highlights
How PTSD manifests physically in the body and affects sexual health.
Dr. Kelley's award-winning research on childbirth trauma and sexual dysfunction.
Why "smiling PTSD" prevents women from getting help after traumatic births.
Evidence-based treatments that work: Prolonged Exposure Therapy, CPT, and EMDR.
How to prepare for subsequent pregnancies after traumatic childbirth.
Trauma-informed care and why communication during emergencies is critical.
Healthcare disparities affecting BIPOC women and community-based solutions
If this episode resonated with you, please rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts or Spotify it helps other women find this life changing information. Share this episode with someone who needs to hear that their trauma is real and treatment is available.
