In this episode of Sofia Unfiltered, Lauren talks with Dr. Rose Schlaff, a pelvic physical therapist, sexologist, and founder of Be Well with Rose. 

Dr. Rose's Journey to Holistic Sexual Wellness

Dr. Rose Schlaff’s journey to holistic healing began with her own struggles. As a pelvic physical therapist, she recognized the lack of comprehensive care available for intimate health. Feeling disconnected from her body and her partner, she began looking for answers beyond standard medical approaches.

 

Drawing on her knowledge and experience, she developed a holistic system designed to help restore pleasure, connection, and vitality. This work eventually led her to found Be Well with Rose, LLC, where she helps people feel empowered through education, self-healing, and open conversations about sexual well-being.

 

Her mission is to break taboos, debunk myths, and create space for honest conversations about sexual health.

 

What Is Sexual Health?

Sexual health refers to a person’s overall well-being in relation to sexuality and sexual experiences. It involves a positive and respectful approach to sexual relationships, the ability to have safe and pleasurable experiences, and access to accurate information and healthcare.

 

Achieving sexual health depends on comprehensive knowledge about sex, awareness of risks, access to sexual health services, and living in an environment that supports and promotes sexual well-being.

 

This concept also includes addressing issues such as sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancies, sexual dysfunction, sexual violence, and harmful practices.

Sofia Health helps you connect with top wellness professionals who can help you improve your sexual health. 

5 Myths About Sex

Sex Discomfort Is Normal: Pain during sex is not something people have to accept as normal. Discomfort is not inevitable, and it should be addressed instead of dismissed as just part of the experience.

 

Tighter Is Always Better: Having a very tight pelvic floor is not necessarily healthier. A balanced pelvic floor is important, and in some cases, the muscles may need to relax before strengthening exercises are introduced.

 

Foreplay isn’t Necessary: Intimacy is not exactly like what we often see in movies and TV shows. Real-life relationships require open communication, emotional safety, and mutual understanding—not scripted moments.

 

You’re Alone in Your Struggles: Feeling like you are the only one experiencing sexual health challenges is a common misconception. Many people go through similar struggles, and you are not alone.

 

One Solution Fits All: Everyone’s healthcare needs are different. What works for one person may not work for another, and that is okay. Sexual health support should be personalized.

 

Unmasking Sex Misconceptions

Dr. Rose Schlaff discusses common misconceptions about sexual wellness and intimate health. Many clients struggle with unrealistic expectations shaped by societal norms and media portrayals. Dr. Rose emphasizes that intimacy is not a script from movies or television. Instead, it is a nuanced experience that requires open communication, trust, and curiosity.

 

When addressing pain during sex, she challenges the belief that discomfort is inevitable. Rather than accepting pain as normal, she encourages a holistic approach that allows both partners to redefine what success, intimacy, and pleasure can look like.

 

She also highlights the value of playful exploration. Trying new experiences with curiosity and communication can help rekindle connection and deepen intimacy.

 

The conversation also explores the common belief that “tighter is better,” especially when it comes to the pelvic floor. Dr. Rose explains that a healthy pelvic floor is not simply about strength. Balance, relaxation, coordination, and proper function all matter.

 

Contrary to the idea that everyone should immediately start doing Kegels, she explains that some people may need to focus on relaxing the pelvic floor before working on strengthening it. Because overactivity, weakness, and tension can be complex, she recommends seeking professional guidance for individualized support.

 

Beyond Taboos: Addressing Pelvic Health and Intimacy

The conversation between Lauren and Dr. Rose focuses on the need to redefine healthcare approaches and encourage open communication about sexual wellness. They emphasize that healthcare should not be treated as a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, people should recognize that their bodies change over time and may need different types of care and support in different seasons of life.

 

Dr. Rose provides insight into pelvic health and sexual well-being, addressing common concerns such as pain during intercourse, difficulty reaching orgasm, heavy periods, urinary issues, and more. She encourages people to ask questions about their pelvic health, sexual experiences, and relationship communication.

 

Dr. Rose also offers practical advice for starting conversations about sexual health with partners, including using an ad-lib-style guide to make those conversations feel more approachable.

 

Lauren and Dr. Rose also discuss the importance of overcoming assumptions and misconceptions to build deeper connections. Lauren shares personal experiences and highlights the importance of giving partners permission to change and grow.

 

The conversation concludes by emphasizing the importance of open communication and vulnerability in maintaining intimacy and emotional well-being.

 

Understanding the Nervous System's Role in Sexual Health and Well-being

The discussion also explores the role of the nervous system in sexual health. Dr. Rose explains the two main components of the autonomic nervous system: the sympathetic nervous system, often associated with fight-or-flight responses, and the parasympathetic nervous system, often associated with rest-and-digest functions. These systems can directly influence arousal, relaxation, connection, and overall wellness.

 

Rather than focusing on drastic changes, Dr. Rose encourages a mindset of gradual progress. She recommends asking what small adjustment could create even a 5% improvement in the present moment. This might relate to feeling safer, more joyful, more relaxed, or more at peace.

 

Over time, small shifts practiced consistently can lead to meaningful changes in the nervous system. Dr. Rose also emphasizes the importance of acknowledging progress and celebrating small wins, as this can build both courage and confidence on the journey toward improved sexual health and overall well-being.

 

Exploring Empowerment, Boundaries, and Joy

Dr. Rose shares two key insights from her work and personal experiences. First, she emphasizes the importance of checking in with yourself, especially for those who often focus on caregiving, empathy, and meeting the needs of others. Prioritizing your own emotional and physical well-being can help prevent depletion and create more space for authentic connection.

 

Second, Dr. Rose highlights the value of setting boundaries and clearly communicating needs and feelings. She explains that this practice can support authentic intimacy and help prevent resentment.

 

Lauren and Dr. Rose also discuss how empowerment begins with self-awareness. They explore the idea of making choices from a place of fullness rather than depletion, and choosing based on personal desires rather than outside pressure.

 

More from Sofia Health

Check out the full episode of the Sofia Unfiltered podcast "Debunking Sexual Health Myths", available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

 

Whether you prefer a subscription over live classes or want to shop for individual services, classes, or products, Sofia Health has you covered. We are here to help you meet your wellness goals across physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. You can also explore services offered by providers in the Sofia Marketplace.

 

Better yet, make a daily dose of wellness part of your routine. Sofia Prime offers both live classes and an extensive on-demand video library. Choose from high-quality offerings in wellness, nutrition, fitness, and meditation. 

 

Start your two-week trial today and discover the difference that dedication and expert support can make.