I’m Emily Clay, and I’ve had the misfortune of being consistently rejected when it comes to intimacy with my long-term partner. Now, you might be wondering, “Isn’t that a bit TMI?” Well, yes but shouldn’t we all ask ourselves WHY it’s TMI? Sexual health is just health after all.

We’ve been fed the idea that discussing the complex world of intimacy is as tacky as showing up to a black-tie event in a Carhartt onesie. I’m here to shatter those social norms and talk candidly. Why? Because I’m tired of the shame that surrounds older women and sex. Society tells women that after a certain age, we should trade in our lingerie and disappear into the sunset. So, where does a curious person like me turn to for candid discussions about intimacy (or the lack thereof)? Friends are great, but let’s face it, their minds tend to drift back to their own romantic rollercoasters. Therapy? Sure, it helps, but it lacks the vibrant diversity of opinions that only a broader discussion can provide.

I’m curious about how women handle consistent sexual rejection and the impact it has had on their mental health. Not one to shy away from taboo topics, I study the intersections of psychology, relationships, sexual behavior and longevity. Recently, I took an intensive course from the Kinsey Institute. I’m also a graduate student in Sexual Health at the University of Minnesota. I’ll talk about things I’m learning, uncover myths and provide tips that hopefully help others. I won’t be clutching my pearl necklace when discussing these topics and I hope you won’t hold back either.