Welcome to You Should Know!

Youshouldknow.ca: sexual health news, views and science for women in perimenopause and beyond. Find info on preventing sexually transmitted infections, aging considerations, and relationship dynamics. Supportive information for all of us as we move into our middle years with partners new and old.

Lie Back and Think Of….

It’s Victoria Day in Canada, the recognition of the Queen’s Birthday and longstanding connection to “our” Mother Ship, England. Many Canadians have no connection to England as conqueror or otherwise, but that’s a whole other political blog that may or may not be about sexual health. Thinking about what to post on this day, the phrase, “Lie back and think of England” popped into my head.

I’ve understood it was given as “advice” to women when their husbands wanted sex and they didn’t. Good old Wikipedia confirmed this, and the fact that it theoretically originates in the Victorian era, in the diary of a woman named Lady Alice Hillingdon. It was also given as preparation for brides on their wedding night –  pretty much the only sex education they were going to get.

I know sex education for youth is fraught with parental worry about how much is too much and what’s the best timing, but I surely hope that women and men get comprehensive sex ed long before they’re preparing for their weddings.

For those in our age bracket who are starting out again and might need some refresher info, check our FAQ pages as a start. Pamela Madsen (Shameless) is a great writer celebrating lively and informed sexuality over 50. And I’ve recently discovered Joan Price, author of Naked At Our Age.

It’s a holiday. Relax, and lie back if you so desire. Think about whatever makes you happy.

- Janet

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