Halle Berry Shares What She Now Avoids in the Bedroom
Halle Berry recently shared insights into her changing attitudes toward intimacy following a diagnosis of perimenopause. During a talk at the A Day of Unreasonable Conversation summit, she candidly expressed how this condition reshaped her experiences in the bedroom.
Perimenopause and Personal Revelation
Berry, who began dating musician Van Hunt at 54, faced a significant emotional challenge when she was misdiagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease. This misdiagnosis followed pain during sexual intercourse, which she described with vivid imagery as feeling like “razor blades” inside her. The actor consulted her gynecologist, who initially diagnosed her with a severe case of herpes.
After testing negative for STDs, Berry discovered that her symptoms were actually linked to perimenopause, a condition affecting approximately two million women in the United States each year.
Changing Perspectives on Sexual Pleasure
In an episode of the Sex With Emily podcast, Berry elaborated on how this experience empowered her to speak openly about sexual needs. She emphasized no longer faking orgasms—a common experience among many women. Berry stated, “I come first like you come first to you.” This reflects a growing understanding of the importance of mutual pleasure in intimate relationships.
- Faking orgasms is prevalent, often driven by societal norms.
- A 2021 study indicated factors like masturbation frequency influence this behavior.
- Both Berry and podcast host Emily Morse noted the male-centric teachings of sexual experiences.
Understanding and Communication
Berry’s journey also highlights the need for open communication between partners. She noted the importance of discussing what feels good for each person involved, stating, “We both deserve to have this be a mutually enjoyable experience.”
Reflecting on her earlier experiences, she remarked on the pressures that often exist around sexual expectations, particularly those informed by pornography. She expressed a desire to break away from these myths, instructing her partner to avoid “doing what you see in porn.”
Lessons Learned
Berry recounted the initial confusion after the misdiagnosis, which led to a blame game between her and Hunt. She described how this situation prompted her to research her symptoms, ultimately identifying “Dry Vagina Syndrome,” a common issue during perimenopause.
By sharing her story, Halle Berry aims to raise awareness about perimenopause and promote a healthier dialogue about sexual health and intimacy. Through her experiences, she inspires others to prioritize their pleasure and have honest conversations with their partners.
