There are a few different responses, all of which can be useful:

1) It's only awkward because you aren't used to it. The more you do it, the more you'll discover that it can actually increase both the heat and intimacy of your sexual interactions. Practice makes perfect!

2) You're not used to it because you've been sold a bill of goods. Many of us got raised with the mythology that women aren't supposed to have sexual desires, and if we do, we certainly aren't supposed to TALK about them. On the converse, men are supposed to be such awesome lovers that they psychically know what their partner wants without ever having to ask, just by the sheer power of the testosterone coursing through their veins. It's bunk, all of it, and it's a trap that keeps us isolated and alienated from our own, authentic sexuality. It's also SILLY. Of course women have desires. Of course men aren't psychic. Of course all of us -- at least the good lovers among us -- want to know more about how to please our partners. How could talking about sex not help us do that, and help our partners please us, too?

3) Even if it feels awkward, it's a heck of a lot better than accidentally violating someone's boundaries because you didn't make sure you have enthusiastic consent. Would you rather feel a little awkward, or would you rather risk really damaging your sexual partner?

Hope this helps!