Brooke Shields Discusses Aging and Sex in Memoir

In her new memoir, "Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Aging as a Woman," actress Brooke Shields candidly discusses the complexities of her sex life as she navigates aging. At 59, Shields reveals that sex has become "painful" due to vaginal dryness and a diminishing sex drive, which she attributes to menopause and an unconsented vaginal rejuvenation procedure. She reflects on her earlier years, expressing regret for not embracing her sexuality fully and recounting how she often pretends to be asleep to avoid intimacy with her husband, Chris Henchy. Shields emphasizes the physical changes that accompany aging, such as thinning hair and belly fat, contributing to her feelings of diminished appeal. She relies on various aids, including lotions and tequila, to enhance her sexual experiences and acknowledges the need for hormonal balancing. Ultimately, Shields highlights the societal pressures and personal challenges that women face regarding sexuality as they age.