Should you have sex when you’re not in the mood? You should never feel pressured or obligated to have sex, but you also may not need to wait for spontaneous desire before beginning to connect.In this episode of the Sexology Podcast Caroline Hood joins Dr. Nazanin Moali to explain how responsive desire works and why sexual desire often changes in long-term relationships. They explore the important difference between being willing to become intimate and forcing yourself to have sex when you do not want to.Caroline explains why some people experience desire only after affection, touch, or sexual stimulation begins. She also discusses how couples can schedule intimacy without making it feel obligatory, create the conditions that allow desire to grow, and communicate about sex without introducing pressure or rejection.The conversation also explores sexuality after motherhood, the Madonna-whore narrative, emotional disconnection, and the importance of expanding our definition of what counts as sex. If you have been wondering why you are rarely “in the mood,” this episode offers a more compassionate way to understand your desire.In this episode, you will learn:• The difference between spontaneous and responsive desire• Whether it is healthy to have sex when you are not initially in the mood• Why sexual pressure and obligation reduce desire• How to schedule sex without making it feel like another chore• How couples can create more space for intimacy• Why low desire does not always mean a lack of attraction• How motherhood can affect sexuality and identity• How the Madonna-whore narrative shapes women’s sexuality• Why emotional connection matters for sexual desire• How to communicate sexual needs without blame or pressure• Why expanding your definition of sex can create more pleasure• How fulfilling sexual experiences can help desire grow over timeAbout Caroline HoodCaroline Hood is a writer and speaker exploring desire, intimacy, sex, play, and the cultural narratives surrounding long-term relationships. Her work combines humor, introspection, practical guidance, empowerment, and a little tough love.Caroline challenges the assumption that sex inevitably becomes less satisfying over time. In Because I Want To, she encourages readers to reconnect with their desire, deepen intimacy, and build a more exciting and fulfilling sexual relationship.Learn more about Caroline Hood:https://www.desireinreallife.com/The Ultimate List of 100+ Ways to Keep Love Hothttps://sexologypodcast.com/subscribe/Follow the Sexology Podcast on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sexologypodcastAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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