Recommended Reading

General Sexual Information

Joannides, P. N. (2004) Guide To Getting it On Waldport, OR; Goofy Foot Press

This is a (very large) lively, upbeat book that covers nearly every element of sexuality in a straightforward, plain-talk, humorous way. It is clearly aimed at a young, hip audience but nearly everyone would have something to learn from this book. It is, however, extremely explicit both in its pictures and its text and some may find it offensive.

Low Libido

Davis, M. W. (2003) The Sex Starved Marriage – A Couple's Guide to Boosting Their Marriage Libido. New York; Simon and Schuster

This is an excellent, practical and easy-to-read guide designed to help patients negotiate through marriages that face the challenges of a low-libido partner. It outlines some of the potential causes but more importantly, suggests potential solutions.

Love P. and Robinson J. (1995) Hot Monogamy – Essential Steps to More Passionate, Intimate Lovemaking. New York; Plume Books

This is another, easy to read, practical volume on dealing with low libido in the context of a committed relationship. It includes a questionnaire, which may help couples begin the process of discussion as well as focus on areas on which they can work.

Schnarch D. (2002) Resurrecting Sex – Resolving Sexual Problems and Rejuvenating Your Relationship. New York; HarperCollins Publishers

This is a much more sophisticated, complex book. It provides an alternative approach to dealing with the avoidance of sex by the partners and tends to be more focused on understanding the issues, rather than practical solutions. However, for a sophisticated, psychologically oriented couple, this book could be invaluable.

Vaginismus

Katz, D. and Ross, L.T. (2002) Private Pain. New York; Katz-Tabi Publications

Although this book is short on practical advice, it is warm and empathetic and gives voice to those women who have experienced this highly embarrassing and debilitating syndrome. Our patients have been appreciative of being given a book that so thoroughly describes how they feel.

Difficulty with Orgasm

Heiman, J. and LoPiccolo, J. (1988) Becoming Orgasmic – A Sexual and Personal Growth Program for Women. New York; Simon and Schuster

This is one of the classic books on overcoming orgasmic difficulty. It includes an introduction to the female anatomy, relaxation exercises and step-by-step instructions. Some patients, however, may find it elementary or too formal in its approach.

Barbach, L. (1975) For Yourself – The Fulfillment of Female Sexuality. New York, New York; Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Group Inc.

Another classic book on female sexual self-exploration, this book is also a basic introduction to masturbation techniques. It is very well written but some patients may also find this to be a bit dense and dated.

Dodson, B. (1996) Sex for One – The Joy of Self-Loving. New York; Three Rivers Press

This book is both a champion and a guide for masturbation. It is clear and up to date, easy to read and amusing. Please be aware that it is very explicit and may be offensive to some.

Resolving Family History Issues

Zoldbrod, A.P. (1998) Sex Smart – How Your Childhood Shaped Your Sexual Life and What to Do About It. Publishers Group West

This is a "workbook" style volume, which takes the reader through a series of exercises aimed at understanding both their own attitudes toward sexuality, as well as those of their family of origin. It is fairly simple and straightforward, but it would be helpful to a patient who may be beginning to understand these issues or who may be hesitant with regard to therapy.