Why do I feel ashamed about my body during intimate moments?

Body overcoming shame during intimate moments is incredibly common and usually has little to do with how your body actually looks and everything to do with internalized messages about what bodies 'should' look like. These feelings often stem from cultural beauty standards, media representations of 'perfect' bodies, past criticism from partners or family members, or your own harsh self-judgment. During intimate moments, when you're most vulnerable and exposed, these insecurities can feel magnified. You might find yourself focusing on perceived flaws instead of pleasure, avoiding certain positions or activities, or wanting to hide parts of your body. This shame responses can significantly impact your ability to be present and enjoy intimacy. healing body shame is a gradual process that involves challenging negative self-talk, practicing self-compassion, and slowly building comfort with your body. Start by noticing when shame thoughts arise and gently redirecting your attention to physical sensations or your partner's responses. Remember that your partner is with you because they're attracted to you - they're not cataloging your perceived flaws. Practice body-positive self-talk and consider limiting exposure to media that makes you feel worse about your body. If body shame is severely impacting your intimate life, consider working with a therapist who specializes in body image issues. Many people find that the more they focus on pleasure and connection rather than appearance, the less intrusive these shame thoughts become.