It’s not OK to deprive ourselves of good sex because of this, so how do we try and overcome these negative thoughts and feelings?

“Loving our body for what it does, rather than focusing on how we feel that we look ‘in comparison’ is a great tool for celebrating our bodies,” sex therapist Kate Moyle says. “Daisy Buchanan and I discussed this on my podcast. Building a nurturing relationship with our bodies and getting to know ourselves both sensually and sexually can help to grow our self-confidence, and it can help better equip us with the tools and information to tell our partners what it is exactly that we like and don’t like in that moment.”

“Where possible, be open with your partner about how you feel,” adds Dr. Mahan. “It is important to remember that our own negative criticism of ourselves is rarely shared with others. Mindfulness meditation can also help you to become more aware of your negative thought processes in the moment and help to protect and boundary negative thoughts. Being more mindful of our judgements will then make space for a more compassionate, self-loving narrative. And meeting with a psychologist to explore the root of our negative body image will be helpful for those with chronic negative feelings.”

Considering the narrative we’ve always been fed about women’s bodies and sex, it’s little wonder that this is where many of us are at. It would be naïve to simply say we need to love our bodies more to get the pleasure we deserve out of sex. Self-love isn’t always easy. But the power to feel beautiful is ours for the taking. Try not to let go of the reins.

If you’re struggling with your body image and having concerns about your eating, Beat is a charity that provides help. Call the helpline on 0808 801 0677, visit the website, or email help@beateatingdisorders.org.uk.

Sex and body image: women on the relationship they have with their bodies before, during and after sex