Under the Hood

Rebecca & Alex

Pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Alexandra DiGrado and sex & couples therapist Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy get real about sexual health, intimacy, and the stuff we didn't learn about our body in school. From the clitoral hood to parenthood, no topic is off-limits. Each episode blends a combined 30 years of clinical experience with compassionate advice and humor, giving you trusted knowledge, practical tools, and the confidence to take charge of your health and relationships. 

  1. 3H AGO

    Episode 14: (PART 2) The Psychology of Orgasm: Your Brain's Role in Great Sex

    In Part 2 of our orgasm series, Dr. Rebecca and Dr. Alex move beyond pelvic floor mechanics to explore the psychology of orgasm. You'll learn why your brain matters as much as physical technique, how “shame loops” hijack arousal, and why fantasy is a tool (not cheating). We tackle intrusive thoughts that kill the mood (like "my stomach looks weird in this position") and give you practical tools to communicate your desires without the awkwardness. This episode is your guide to getting out of your head and back into your body, so you can stop "should-ing" all over your sex life and start enjoying it again.  What You’ll Learn: Why saying "I can’t stop thinking about the laundry" out loud actually helps your brain switch back to sex mode.How to use fantasy to get out of your head and into your body and why that’s ok. How to tell your partner exactly what you need.Why solo play is the first step to amazing partnered sex!Tune in if you’ve ever thought: "Why can I orgasm alone, but not with my partner?""Why does my mind wander during sex?""Am I cheating if I fantasize about someone else?""How do I tell them what I want without making it awkward?"Resources The Postpartum Essentials Virtual courseSex After Baby Mini-Course Find a pelvic floor PT near you: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global DirectoryParents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids by Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Connect with us: Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Website: https://www.rebeccaeudy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccahowardeudy/Newsletter:  https://substack.com/@parentsinloveDr. Alexandra DiGrado Website: https://www.bostonpelvicpt.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonpelvicpt/Newsletter: https://bostonpelvicpt.myflodesk.com/underthehood Under the Hood Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/underthehooddocs/Website: http://www.underthehoodpod.com

    26 min
  2. JAN 20

    Episode 13: (Part 1) Orgasms and the Pelvic Floor (what even PTs don’t learn)

    Most people (including medical providers) aren’t taught how orgasms actually “work.” In this first half of a two-part series, Dr. Alex DiGrado (pelvic floor PT) and Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy (sex therapist) unpack common misconceptions about orgasms and explore what’s going on in the body and brain. From breath and muscle coordination to nervous system regulation, they cover the physical and emotional patterns that can shape pleasure - and why these issues are often overlooked in medical care. Whether you’re confused, curious, or just want to understand your body better, this episode is a great place to start. What you'll learn: Orgasm is a full-body reflex, involving your pelvic floor, breath, diaphragm, and nervous system (aka it’s not a simple on/off switch). Orgasms require both relaxation and excitation at the right times (and how PFPT can help with that).You can orgasm without ejaculation.Most pelvic floor PTs aren't trained in orgasm function in school. Tune in if you’ve ever thought: “I’m not sure if I’ve ever had an orgasm.”“Why does it take me forever to finish (or not at all)?”“How can I feel more relaxed in my body during sex?”“How can pelvic floor PT help with orgasm issues?”Helpful resources: Come As You Are: Revised and Updated: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Emily Nagoski Ph.D.Come Together: The Science (and Art!) of Creating Lasting Sexual Connections by Emily Nagoski Ph.D.Becoming Cliterate: Why Orgasm Equality Matters - And How to Get It by Laurie Mintz Parents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids by Dr. Rebecca Howard EudySex After Baby Mini-CourseFind a pelvic floor PT near you: Pelvic Rehab Directory or Pelvic Global DirectoryConnect with Us: Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Website: rebeccaeudy.com Instagram: @rebeccahowardeudy Newsletter: Parents in Love Substack Dr. Alexandra DiGrado Website: bostonpelvicpt.com Instagram: @bostonpelvicpt Newsletter: Under the Hood Podcast Instagram: @underthehooddocs Website: underthehoodpod.com

    25 min
  3. JAN 13

    Episode 12: Resentment in Relationships (and why “letting it go” doesn’t work)

    Resentment doesn’t come out of nowhere - it’s usually a sign that something important hasn’t been said or repaired. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca (sex & couples therapist) and Dr. Alex (pelvic floor PT) talk about how resentment shows up in everyday relationships, even between people who are trying their best but are operating from completely different playbooks. They unpack why many of us take on too much, assume our partner should “just know” what we’re thinking, and then feel hurt when that doesn’t happen. This conversation is about noticing what's going on under the surface (because it's never just about the dishes), taking responsibility for what you can control, and asking for what you need in a way that actually brings you closer.  What You’ll Learn: When “letting things go” is actually avoidance, and when to speak up instead.Why over-functioning is often a choice that feels easier in the moment but backfires later on.How to ask for what you want without nagging or accusing.How to stop “shitting on the gift” when you try to do something nice for your partnerTune in if you’ve ever thought: “Why am I the only one who takes care of things around here?”“I know deep down my partner cares… so why doesn’t it feel like it?”“If I have to ask him to do it, it doesn't count.”"I should be happy my partner is taking care of himself, but I’m just annoyed instead.”Resources: Find a pelvic floor PT near you: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global DirectoryParents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids by Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Connect with us: Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Website: https://www.rebeccaeudy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccahowardeudy/Newsletter:  https://substack.com/@parentsinloveDr. Alexandra DiGrado Website: https://www.bostonpelvicpt.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonpelvicpt/Newsletter: https://bostonpelvicpt.myflodesk.com/underthehood Under the Hood Podcast Website: http://www.underthehoodpod.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/underthehooddocs/

    23 min
  4. JAN 6

    Episode 11: Stress Incontinence - How to Sneeze, Jump, and Laugh Again Without Leaking

    If you cross your legs before sneezing, avoid your once-favorite HIIT class, or laugh so hard you need more than a tissue, you're not alone. And despite what you've been told, stress incontinence isn't "just a part" of motherhood or aging. In this episode, Dr. Rebecca and Dr. Alex debunk the myths keeping people suffering in silence and offer real, evidence-based solutions for leaking. Whether you're postpartum, an athlete, or just tired of planning life around bathrooms, we'll give you the tools to reclaim confidence and ditch the "just in case" pads. What You’ll Learn "Stress" incontinence isn't about life stress (but may involve everyday habits working against you).Why TikTok's "engage your core all day" advice is terrible (& may ruin your sex life).Why addressing a "minor" leak in your 30s could keep you out of a nursing home in your 80s.How to tell if your pelvic floor is stuck in "overdrive".Tune In If You’ve Ever Thought "I just have a weak pelvic floor from having kids.""I've never had kids, so why am I leaking during workouts?""I do Kegels all the time, so why am I still leaking?""It's just a minor annoyance—I can live with it."Resources Find a pelvic floor PT: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global DirectoryThe Postpartum Essentials Virtual courseParents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids Revive Reusable Bladder Support for Women and Impressa Incontinence Bladder SupportsConnect with us: Dr. Rebecca Website: https://www.rebeccaeudy.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccahowardeudy/Newsletter: https://substack.com/@parentsinloveDr. Alex Website: https://www.bostonpelvicpt.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/bostonpelvicpt/Under the Hood Newsletter: https://bostonpelvicpt.myflodesk.com/underthehood Under the Hood IG: https://www.instagram.com/underthehooddocs/Website: http://www.underthehoodpod.com

    24 min
  5. 12/23/2025

    Episode 10: What Sex Therapists Want You To Know

    In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy (couples and sex therapist) and Dr. Alex DiGrado, DPT, PRPC (pelvic floor physical therapist) talk about what sex therapy and couples therapy involve—from how to find a qualified therapist to what a session might look like. They explore how emotional and physical disconnection often show up together, and why getting support earlier (before things feel overwhelming) can make all the difference. This is a thoughtful, down-to-earth conversation for anyone looking to deepen connection, strengthen their relationship, or simply explore how therapy can support growth and intimacy. You’ll learn: How to find a certified sex therapist (and what credentials to look for)What to expect from your first session The ways anxiety, communication, and touch all impact desire and connectionWhat “homework” in sex therapy looks like (it’s probably not what you think)Tune in if you’ve ever wondered: “When should we see a couples therapist? Is it just for people about to split up?”“What if we don’t have sex, but we get along well otherwise?”“Does sex therapy involve…sex?”“What if my partner won’t come with me to sex therapy?”“How do I even bring this up with my partner?”Resources Find a pelvic floor PT near you: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global DirectoryUnder the Hood Newsletter (Boston Pelvic PT)Parents in Love Newsletter by Dr. Rebecca Howard EudyParents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids by Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Connect with us: Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Website: rebeccaeudy.comInstagram: @rebeccahowardeudyNewsletter: Parents in Love on SubstackDr. Alexandra DiGrado Website: bostonpelvicpt.comInstagram: @bostonpelvicptNewsletter: Under the HoodUnder The Hood Podcast Instagram: @underthehooddocsWebsite: underthehoodpod.com

    26 min
  6. 12/16/2025

    Episode 9: Vaginismus: What It Is and Why “Just Relax” Doesn’t Work

    Vaginismus is often described as “pain with penetration,” but that definition misses the bigger picture. In this episode, couples and sex therapist Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy and pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Alexandra DiGrado unpack what vaginismus really is, why it happens, and how it affects far more than just sex. Together, they explore the role of the nervous system, pelvic floor muscles, fear-avoidance patterns, and past experiences—and why advice like “just relax” can actually make things worse. This conversation offers clarity, compassion, and an evidence-based path forward for anyone navigating pelvic pain or supporting someone who is. What You’ll Learn: Why vaginismus is a protective nervous system response—not a psychological failure or conscious choiceHow the fear–tension–pain cycle develops and reinforces ongoing painWhy vaginismus can affect more than penetration, including exams, tampon use, sitting, and bowel functionWhat effective treatment actually looks like, including pelvic floor PT, education, and nervous system regulationHow healing focuses on safety, choice, and gradual progress—not pushing through painTune in if you’ve ever thought: “Everyone keeps telling me to relax, but I literally don’t know how.”“Can this ever get better, or will it always hurt like this?”“How do I explain this to my partner, and what does it mean for our relationship long-term?”“I feel embarrassed talking about this — am I the only one?”“How do I get help without forcing myself through more pain?”Helpful Resources Intimate Rose anal/vaginal dilators (use code ALEXANDRA1 for 20% off - affiliate link)The Postpartum Essentials Virtual courseSex After Baby Mini-Course Find a pelvic floor PT near you: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global DirectoryUnder the Hood Newsletter (Boston Pelvic PT)Parents in Love Newsletter by Dr. Rebecca Howard EudyParents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids by Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Connect with us: Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Website: https://www.rebeccaeudy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccahowardeudy/Newsletter:  https://substack.com/@parentsinloveDr. Alexandra DiGrado Website: https://www.bostonpelvicpt.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonpelvicpt/Newsletter: https://bostonpelvicpt.myflodesk.com/underthehood Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/underthehooddocs/Website: http://www.underthehoodpod.com

    22 min
  7. 12/09/2025

    Episode 8: It's Not All in Your Head (Unpacking Pelvic Pain)

    In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy (couples and sex therapist) and Dr. Alex DiGrado, DPT, PRPC (pelvic floor physical therapist) discuss how your nervous system, muscular habits, and past experiences (including trauma and chronic stress) are all connected to chronic pelvic pain. Whether you’ve been dismissed by the healthcare system, or are looking to better understand the connection between your body and brain, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, seen, and empowered to seek relief for yourself and your loved ones. What You’ll Learn: The 10-Year Delay: Why conditions like endometriosis take so long to diagnose and how these conditions contribute to chronic muscular pain.The Ab Gripping Habit: How chronic ab-tightening (often thanks to diet culture and fitness trends) can lead to a chronically tight, painful pelvic floor.The Fire Alarm Analogy: Why your body continues to send very real, strong pain signals even after an infection (like a UTI) or injury has been treated.Lifestyle Optimization: The often-overlooked connection between pelvic tension, low back pain, bowel movements, and overall wellness.Tune in if you’ve ever thought: “I feel like I'm going crazy—I know my pain is real, but my doctor keeps telling me everything ‘looks normal’.”“Why does it seem like I constantly have a UTI even though my tests are negative?”“How can pelvic floor PT help my chronic pain when it’s caused by a disease like endometriosis (or PCOS, IBS, and more), rather than a specific injury?"Resources Explain Pain by Lorimer MoseleyThe Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der KolkNancy's Nook (Endometriosis education + resources)Beating Endo by Dr. Iris Kerin Orbuch and Amy SteinFind a pelvic floor PT near you: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global DirectoryUnder the Hood Newsletter (Boston Pelvic PT)Parents in Love Newsletter by Dr. Rebecca Howard EudyParents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids by Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Connect with us: Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Website: https://www.rebeccaeudy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccahowardeudy/Newsletter:  https://substack.com/@parentsinloveDr. Alexandra DiGrado Website: https://www.bostonpelvicpt.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonpelvicpt/Newsletter: https://bostonpelvicpt.myflodesk.com/underthehood Under the Hood Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/underthehooddocs/Website: http://www.underthehoodpod.com

    28 min
  8. 12/02/2025

    Episode 7: The Truth About Kegels (what really happens in pelvic floor PT)

    Most people hear “pelvic floor PT” and think, “So…Kegels and an awkward exam?” But here’s what most people don’t realize: good pelvic floor physical therapy is full-body, trauma-informed care that connects your bladder, bowel, sexual function, posture, breathing, and stress levels—not just your vagina, penis, or “down there.” In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy (couples and sex therapist) and Dr. Alex DiGrado (pelvic floor physical therapist) pull back the curtain on what actually happens in a pelvic floor PT visit. From the intake questions to the internal exam (always optional, always consent-based), they walk through how a skilled PT looks at your whole body, your nervous system, and your real life to understand what’s going on. Whether you’re leaking when you sneeze, dealing with constipation, dreading sex because it hurts, or just wondering if your “weird” symptoms are normal, this conversation will leave you informed, de-shamed, and more confident about getting the help you deserve. What You’ll Learn What really happens at a pelvic floor PT appointmentWhy training and approach matter so much in the PFPT you choose The truth about Kegels (and why tight muscles are weak muscles)How your whole life shows up in your pelvisSigns that pelvic floor PT could help youTune in if you’ve ever thought: “Isn’t pelvic floor PT just Kegels?”“I had a weird pelvic floor PT experience—do I really want to try again?”“Why am I leaking, in pain, or running to the bathroom all the time?”“Is it normal that sex hurts (or feels numb) after childbirth or surgery?”“What actually happens in an internal exam—and do I have to do one?”Resources  Pelvic floor + postpartum support & coursesThe Healthy Pelvis Project – virtual pelvic health and postpartum support:  https://thehealthypelvisproject.podia.com/Find a pelvic floor physical therapist near youPelvic Rehab Provider Directory:  http://pelvicrehab.com/Pelvic Global PT Directory:  https://directory.pelvicglobal.com/Sex & RelationshipsParents in Love: A Guide to Great Sex After Kids by Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy Connect with Us Dr. Rebecca Howard EudyWebsite: https://www.rebeccaeudy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccahowardeudy/Newsletter:  https://substack.com/@parentsinloveDr. Alexandria DiGradoWebsite: https://www.bostonpelvicpt.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bostonpelvicpt/Newsletter:  https://bostonpelvicpt.myflodesk.com/underthehood PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/underthehooddocs/Website: http://www.underthehoodpod.com

    27 min
5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Alexandra DiGrado and sex & couples therapist Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy get real about sexual health, intimacy, and the stuff we didn't learn about our body in school. From the clitoral hood to parenthood, no topic is off-limits. Each episode blends a combined 30 years of clinical experience with compassionate advice and humor, giving you trusted knowledge, practical tools, and the confidence to take charge of your health and relationships.