I kept trying to make the issue romantic because that felt less embarrassing than making it physical. But the truth was physical. Dryness. Pain. Avoidance. Then guilt about avoidance.

The first useful thing I did was write down the words I was afraid to say. The second was bringing them to an appointment. Nothing about that was glamorous, but it was easier than pretending.

* * *

What I wish I had known is that other women were typing the same things in different words. It made the whole subject less lonely and more practical.