We’re finally talking about menopause. Night sweats, hot flushes, anxiety… they’re all on the table now. But when it comes to the impact on sex, relationships, and physical confidence? The silence is deafening.

For many women, menopause doesn’t just bring hormonal changes — it can deeply affect how they feel about intimacy. Vaginal dryness, reduced sensitivity, and a dip in desire can make sex feel like a chore — or worse still, something to avoid altogether. It’s an issue that’s rarely discussed but affects so many.

At 50, Amanda Fuller found herself struggling. “Being single at 50 was really hard. I didn’t have any confidence; I’d put on a load of weight,” she shares. “I’ve always enjoyed sex, but I just couldn’t bear the thought of anybody even touching me.”

Amanda’s story is not unique. As Relationships and Sex Therapist Miranda Christophers explains, reduced sex drive at the menopausal stage is a common experience.

“Some of the physical changes people have told me that they have experienced during menopause is changes to the way that they feel sexually, and desire, and also in terms of the vaginal area. They notice the area can feel drier; they notice changes internally, and they may be experiencing changes in terms of lubrication. Obviously, all of these things can affect a person’s desire to have sex.”

WATCH OUR FILM WITH ISSVIVA: Over a third of women experience sexual difficulties during menopause, with symptoms like vaginal dryness, reduced sensitivity and a loss of desire.

The science behind the symptoms

Dr Zoe Schaedel, a GP and menopause specialist, sheds light on the root causes. “When estrogen levels are low, there are lots of consequences to this. Firstly, the glands that produce secretions in the vagina stop doing that, so you can get this vaginal dryness — and that can be really uncomfortable. The little tissues that line all of the structures become thinner, and the cells become smaller, meaning everything just feels thinner, drier, and less comfortable, particularly on intercourse.”

These physical changes can create a vicious cycle, with discomfort leading to avoidance of intimacy, further straining relationships and self-esteem.

Innovative solutions: Empowering women to take control

Issviva, a part of the Essity Hygiene and Health Group, is on a mission to address these challenges, and has stepped up with cutting-edge solutions. In partnership with Joylux, they’ve developed a Vaginal Rejuvenation Device that combines infrared light, thermal heat, and mild vibration to improve vaginal tissue health.

Clinical studies have shown remarkable results: nearly 80 per cent of users reported improved sexual function after six weeks, and 90 per cent experienced increased sensitivity.

For Amanda, the device was transformative. “Within about three or four days, I felt a tightening; the only way I can describe it is that everything felt a little bit higher up. It actually reintroduced my brain to that part of my body, which had been so derelict and in storage for so long!

“I do believe the device was the reawakening that I needed, and I’m so grateful that this popped up on an advert… do your research, learn about it, and I hope that it works for many more people because it’s definitely worked for me.”

Supporting a fulfilling sex life at any age

Dr Zoe Schaedel emphasises the importance of addressing these issues: “It’s a real myth that women, as they age, don’t want to have sex. They do, but they want the sex to be comfortable, pain-free, enjoyable… so we want to be able to support women to have a good sex life as they age, and to improve their quality of life.”

By fostering open conversations and providing innovative solutions, brands like Issviva are helping women navigate the challenges of menopause, empowering them to embrace intimacy and confidence in later life.

Issviva recently conducted an international menopause study of 16,000 women and found that 61 per cent didn’t come across any campaigns about the menopause which put the spotlight on symptoms.

It also found that only 20 per cent felt informed about the menopause and its impact on them, and 42 per cent avoided talking about the subject with their partner.

By breaking down taboos, sharing real solutions, and empowering women with knowledge, we can help them reclaim their confidence and intimacy in later life, and encourage more conversations in the bedroom and beyond.

Explore our programme: REDEFINING LATER LIVING