Why is it so hard to talk about sex?

About this episode

<p>Around one in five UK adults say they don’t feel comfortable talking about sex with anyone, and research suggests women in straight relationships often find it easier to talk about sex with friends than with their partners. Kimberley is joined by psychotherapist Sarah Harness to explore why sexual communication is so difficult, the part shame plays in keeping us silent, how the orgasm gap and desire discrepancy affect relationships, and practical ways to start talking about sex with honesty, curiosity and care. This episode contains explicit discussion of sexual content.</p><p>Kimberley Wilson, chartered psychologist, is on a mission to sift through all the information and misinformation that’s out there around our mental health. She invites expert guests - trained psychologists, psychiatrists and psychotherapists - to help her share insight and some valuable tips. You can get in touch with the show. The email address is <a href="mailto:complex@bbc.co.uk">complex@bbc.co.uk</a>. We might use what you tell us but we will do so anonymously. If you don’t want your email to be included in the podcast, then please remember to let us know.</p><p>Kimberley is not able to answer emails personally. If you are concerned you have a medical or mental health issue, then please contact your GP or seek expert help. Please also take a look on the BBC Actionline page: <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/">https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/</a> where you can find details of organisations offering information and support for common issues.</p><p>Complex is a Loftus Media production for BBC Sounds. Producer: Katie Chandler Clarke Assistant Producer / Research: Samara Linton Executive Producers: Rami Tzabar and Kirsten Lass Tech Producer: Reuben Huxtable Studio Engineer: Matt Hua Sound Designer: Ruth Rainey Digital Lead: Richard Berry Podcast artwork photography: Darren Skene</p><p>And for BBC Sounds: Assistant Commissioner: Izzy Lee-Poulton and Commissioning Editor: Rhian Roberts</p>