Welcome to part two of our Q&A with sex therapist Lisa Paz. Last week we talked general sex, this week we’re getting specific with Miami, maternity & moms.

You've been practicing in Miami for some time now, what are some common sex/relationship issues unique to the area?
Body image plays a big part for women in Miami. This is a very body conscious part of the country, so I think women’s need to feel a different size and they’re idea of what sexy is probably a little less flexible here. I have girlfriends in the Northeast who put on five extra pounds no one notices for half the year. Down here body image is a big deal.

Sex can be a tricky thing for pregnant women. Any advice to pass along?
If you want to have sex and your pregnancy is manifesting in an increase in a desire, go for it. If you’re feeling self-conscious, incorporate lingerie and lighting.
Also, don’t shy away form communicating to your partner that you love him but that your’e going through hormonal and body changes. Some women who are pregnant and don’t want to have sex don’t necessarily know how to communicate that.

Any guidance for the sex-starved moms out there?
I’m a big proponent of women masturbating. It’s sexual exercise, it connects women to their fantasies and to how they’d like to be touched - without any pressure.

Sounds great, any tips to get started?
I suggest women buy a vibrator or a bullet. Men are very visual, women are very mental so what I encourage them to do is Google erotic literature or read steamy novels and figure out what they like to think about. I try to help women cultivate a sexuality. A great way to do that is through reading
Women have full stories, recognizing that for women it’s not about looking at anatomy, but connecting to a story and helping them figure out what they would like.
Make time, get rid of any shame & figure out how to cultivate your fantasies.

Lisa Paz is a Miami-based sex therapist. For more information visit DrLisaPaz.com or call 305-878-6236.