How does our understanding of "cleanliness" perpetuate STI stigma? This week on Something Positive for Positive People, Courtney Brame is joined by Australian sexologist Kiki Maree for a transparent conversation about neutralizing the shame surrounding sexual health.

Kiki opens up about her childhood experience of oral herpes being completely normalized within her family, contrasting it with the intense stigma society places on genital herpes. Together, Courtney and Kiki explore the confusing journey of being diagnosed with Ureaplasma and Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), and how hyper-vigilance around "smell" and "cleanliness" can destroy intimacy. Kiki also explains how physical setbacks—whether it's an STI diagnosis, erectile disappointment, or a boundary violation—can actually serve as powerful access points to a deeper, more authentic connection with your own sexuality.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Follow Kiki Maree on Instagram: @yoniclicious or @kiki.maree

• Visit Kiki’s Website for Free Resources: yoniclicious.com.au

• Get Tickets for the NYC Expo (Aug 29): spfpp.org/expo

• • Subscribe to the SPFPP Newsletter: spfpp.org/herpes-newsletter
  • Self Yoni Love: https://www.yonilicious.com.au/access-pleasure-portal
  • Navigating sexuaqlity while living alongside chronic pain and/or illness: https://www.yonilicious.com.au/navigating-pain-and-illness-masterclass
    
  • Body Image & Sexuality: https://www.yonilicious.com.au/body-image-neutrality-masterclass