Are you noticing changes in your desire for intimacy and wondering if it's just “part of getting older”? These shifts are more common than you might think—and they’re absolutely worth understanding and addressing.

In this episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jillian Woodruff, a board-certified gynecologist and menopause expert, and Dr. Ade Akindipe, a functional medicine expert and nurse practitioner, explore the many facets of female libido and sexual wellness in midlife. Together, they tackle important and often overlooked topics: hormonal shifts, pain with intimacy, the psychological and emotional dimensions of desire, and the real reasons why sex might feel different—or absent—at this stage of life.

You’ll gain evidence-based insights into how libido works, how it naturally evolves over time, and what you can do to reclaim your intimacy and confidence. From therapy to hormone replacement to FDA-approved medications, this episode is a comprehensive guide to taking charge of your sexual health—with no shame, and plenty of support. Tune in now!

If this conversation provided clarity or encouragement, consider sharing it with a friend or loved one. Follow the podcast, leave a review, and stay connected with us—because informed, empowered midlife health is something every woman deserves.

Highlights:

• Understanding libido: spontaneous vs. responsive desire
• The role of estrogen and testosterone in female sexual health
• Why pain with intimacy is common—but not something to endure
• The impact of chronic illness, medications, and mental health on libido
• Navigating hormonal birth control and its effects on desire
• Effective treatments including local estrogen, sex therapy, and prescription options
• The role of body image, relationship dynamics, and open communication
• Why personalized care is key to a satisfying sex life

Get to know the doctors behind the insights of The Modern Midlife Collective Podcast:

Ade Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-C is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, hormone and obesity specialist, and expert in metabolic and longevity medicine. She is the founder and Medical Director of Rejuvenate Health and Wellness, where she has empowered hundreds of women to reclaim their health, overcome stubborn weight challenges, and unlock vibrant energy through science-based, personalized care.

With a deep commitment to transforming the landscape of midlife health, she blends cutting-edge medical innovation with a functional, root-cause approach to wellness. She is recognized as a trusted authority in women's health and passionate about service and health equity. Dr. Akindipe also serves as Co-Chair of the Health Committee for the Alaska Black Caucus, advocating for greater access to preventive care and wellness initiatives in underrepresented communities.

Jillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMP, is a board-certified gynecologist, surgeon, and nationally certified menopause provider specializing in general and cosmetic gynecologic surgery. As Chief Medical Officer of Modern Gynecology & Skin, she specializes in hormone therapy, sexual medicine, and aesthetic treatments to help women thrive.

She is the host of “Line One” on Alaska Public Media, an NPR-affiliated medical affairs radio show, and co-founder of The Women’s WELL Foundation, dedicated to women’s health education and access.

As the co-host of The Modern Midlife Collective, she brings expertise in hormones, sexual health, aesthetics, and holistic practices, teaching women to advocate for their health and well-being in midlife with confidence.

Passionate about global health, lifestyle medicine, and education, she enjoys traveling, humanitarian work, studying languages, and family life while empowering women to take charge of their health.