World Menopause Day β€’ 18 October

Let’s talk menopause

Your next chapter.
Your kind of comfort.

Menopause, intimacy and feeling like you. Explore support for every step of your journey.

Understanding the change

Menopause is personal. Support should be too.

Everyone’s experience is different. Understanding the changes can help you find the support you need.

More than hot flushes

Changes can affect sleep, mood, vaginal comfort and desire.

Making intimacy comfortable

Take your time, talk openly and explore what feels good. Lubricants can help reduce friction during sex.

Get to know your pelvic floor

Strength and relaxation both matter. A pelvic health physiotherapist can help you understand what is right for you.

Selected reading

A little knowledge. More confidence.

Explore further support, at your pace.

Start with understanding your needs. Then explore the options that fit.

Lubricants

Bring a little extra glide to intimate moments. Explore lubricants for sex and solo play, whether you are rediscovering favourites or trying something new.

Explore lubricants

Vaginal dilators

Take things at your own pace. Discover graduated sizes that let you start small, with no pressure to move to the next size.

Explore dilators

Kegel trainers

Explore a more hands-on approach to pelvic floor exercises. Discover our range of Kegel trainers and follow the instructions supplied with each product.

Explore kegel trainers

Questions? You’re in the right place.

What is the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the transition towards menopause, when symptoms can begin and your periods may change. Menopause is usually identified after 12 months without a period, if you are not using hormonal contraception. A healthcare professional can help if your situation is less clear.

Read the NHS menopause guide

What can help with vaginal dryness?

Water-based lubricants can help during sex, while vaginal moisturisers are designed for ongoing dryness. Avoid perfumed products and moisturisers that are not intended for vaginal use. If dryness persists or affects daily life, speak to your GP about treatment options.

Read NHS advice on vaginal dryness

Are Kegel exercises right for everyone?

Not everyone needs more strengthening. Pelvic floor muscles also need to relax, and pain can sometimes involve muscles that are overactive or tense. A pelvic health physiotherapist can assess your needs and guide you on strengthening, relaxation or other support before you start using a trainer.

Read NHS pelvic health guidance

When should I speak to a healthcare professional?

Speak to your GP if symptoms persist, affect daily life or make intimacy painful. Get bleeding after sex, between periods or after menopause checked, and seek advice about unusual discharge. You do not need to wait until symptoms become severe to ask for support.

Read when to seek help

Can menopause affect your sex drive?

Yes, some people notice a lower sex drive during perimenopause and menopause. Poor sleep, changes in mood and vaginal discomfort can all influence how you feel about intimacy. There is no β€œcorrect” level of desire, but if the change is troubling you, a GP can discuss support and treatment options.

Which lubricant should I use for vaginal dryness during menopause?

A water-based lubricant is a good starting point, and the NHS recommends using one before sex to help with vaginal dryness. Check the packaging for compatibility with your condoms and sex toys. Avoid oil-based lubricants with latex condoms, as they can damage the latex. If a product causes irritation, stop using it.

Can you still get pregnant during perimenopause?

Yes. Irregular or less frequent periods do not mean pregnancy is no longer possible. NHS guidance advises continuing contraception for two years after your final period if you are aged 40 to 49, or one year if you are 50 or over. Hormonal contraception can make it harder to identify your final period, so ask a GP or sexual health clinician before stopping.

Can menopause affect sleep and concentration?

Yes. Difficulty sleeping, night sweats and changes in memory or concentration can happen during perimenopause and menopause. Poor sleep can also make daytime tiredness and brain fog feel worse. If these changes are affecting your daily life, speak to a GP about ways to manage them.

Every chapter deserves care.

Explore advice & guides