The Legacy of Dr Ruth Westheimer: Pioneering Sex Positivity in the US

Dr Ruth Westheimer, the iconic TV sex therapist, left a lasting legacy in the US with her unapologetic openness and sex positivity. Her impact resonates through cultural phenomena like Netflix, Showtime, and a prevalence of erectile dysfunction ads.

Beginning in the 1980s, Dr Ruth’s radio and TV shows revolutionized the conversation around sex, advocating for its normalcy in everyday life. Her work at Planned Parenthood and education in human sexuality lent credibility to her advice.

Dr Ruth’s approach, characterized by candidness and humor, marked a significant shift towards sex positivity in a society with deep-rooted Puritanical values. Her persona as a comforting grandmotherly figure was crucial in mainstream acceptance.

Having survived World War Two as a child through Kindertransport, Dr Ruth’s cheerful demeanor and Talmud-inspired teachings endeared her to audiences, making her a frequent guest on late-night shows like Johnny Carson and Jimmy Kimmel.

Her influence traces back to the sexual liberation of the 1960s and the emergence of porn in the 1970s, with Dr Ruth embodying a beacon of openness and solution-seeking in the face of sexual issues.

Despite her light-hearted image, Dr Ruth was a staunch advocate for contraception, women’s reproductive health, and safe sex practices, especially during the Aids epidemic. Her book ‘Dr Ruth’s Guide to Safer Sex’ exemplifies her commitment to education and awareness.

In 2019, she continued her mission in a Hulu documentary, offering blunt advice to a new generation, emphasizing the importance of making time for sex amidst busy lives. Dr Ruth’s impact on sex education and positivity remains undeniable and enduring.