Book Review and Key Takeaways
About Dr. Casperson
Dr. Kelly Casperson, MD, is a board-certified urologist with extensive expertise in sexual medicine, pelvic health, and female urology. Her additional expertise in perimenopause and menopause enable her to provide a holistic approach to women’s sexual health, addressing issues such as incontinence, pelvic floor disorders, genitourinary syndrome of menopause and sexual dysfunction. As an educator and advocate, Dr. Casperson is dedicated to demystifying sexual function and offering guidance on often misunderstood topics in sexual well-being.
In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Casperson is a leading voice in sexual health advocacy, empowering individuals—especially women—to reclaim their sexuality. Recognizing a profound gap in how society addresses sexual wellness, she uses her platform as a speaker, podcast host, and author to promote open, shame-free conversations about sexual health and mental well-being. Through her book, You Are Not Broken, Dr. Casperson seeks to dismantle societal norms and misconceptions, encouraging people to build deeper, more joyful connections with their bodies and embrace sexual fulfillment without guilt or stigma.
Book Review and Key Takeaways
In You Are Not Broken, Dr. Kelly Casperson shatters the myth that sexual wellness is an elusive or purely biological phenomenon. She eloquently dives into the cultural conditioning that has shaped women’s understanding of their sexual identities, calling out the pressure-filled expectations that dictate how they "should" feel and behave in the bedroom. The book is a refreshing mix of science-backed information, practical advice, and deeply compassionate encouragement, making it accessible for anyone looking to cultivate a healthier, more satisfying sex life.
One of the key takeaways is her emphasis on mindset. Dr. Casperson illustrates that much of what holds people back from sexual satisfaction isn’t physical limitations but mental barriers. Through a blend of neuroscience and real-world examples, she guides readers to recognize and dismantle negative thoughts and beliefs about their bodies, desires, and performance. In doing so, she emphasizes that sexual fulfillment isn’t about adhering to a checklist of "shoulds" but about fostering a sense of curiosity, play, and self-compassion.
Another critical aspect of the book is its focus on communication, both with oneself and with partners. Dr. Casperson gives clear, actionable steps to improve sexual communication, ensuring that readers feel empowered to articulate their needs and boundaries. Her approach promotes emotional intimacy as a cornerstone of a healthy sex life, underlining the importance of mutual respect, consent, and openness.
What truly sets You Are Not Broken apart is its unapologetic approach to female pleasure and autonomy. Dr. Casperson dismantles outdated narratives that have long placed women’s pleasure secondary to their partners, asserting that sexual satisfaction is not only important but vital to overall well-being. She addresses common struggles such as libido changes, body image issues, and sexual dysfunction with compassion, offering tools to navigate these challenges without shame.
In sum, You Are Not Broken is an empowering guide for anyone who has ever felt limited by societal norms around sex. Dr. Casperson offers a liberating, educational, and empowering resource, encouraging readers to reclaim their sexual joy and break free from the burdensome “shoulds” that too often cloud their intimate lives. It’s more than just a book—it’s a movement towards greater sexual health and self-acceptance, and it's a must-read for anyone ready to redefine their relationship with sex on their own terms.
Disclosure: I have been listening to Dr. Casperson’s podcast since 2021. Initially I was just a fan, but then I had the opportunity to plan her first Menopause and Sexual Health Retreat in Sedona, Arizona last year. I am now not only a fan of her work but absolutely gobsmacked by her tireless efforts to educate and advocate for women around the world. I now consider her a dear friend too. Stay tuned for an announcement about her next retreat in October 2025!
