Lingerie for menopause and skin itching from JulieMay Lingerie ) but others are less understood, and we don't always realise these new symptoms are related to our declining hormone levels.   Oestrogen is essential in the production of both collagen and the natural oils that keep our skin moisturised.  But as our oestrogen decreases so our skin changes and can become thinner, itchier, sensitive and make us prone to developing allergies.  Dry skin in midlife is much more common, although I don't have any specific allergies, I certainly need to moisturise my skin a lot more often ..read more

With 1 in 2 of women experiencing a vaginal infection in their lifetime, and many more getting recurrent UTIs especially in menopause, it is something that we need to all be aware of!  Sadly many women are dismissed by their GPs and not given the help they so desperately need. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) become more common in menopause due to the physiological changes that take place.  It's not an easy time! I personally have not had recurrent infections, but the one or two I have had were uncomfortable enough!  My article shares information on how to   includ ..read more

When I started researching for this post, to find out what women were thinking and feeling about one of the lesser discussed symptoms of menopause, it became clear that female sexual function and vaginal wellness isn't talked about or searched for online much. It is easy to find information on men's sexual health - including erectile dysfunction - but we are far less open about female libido, vaginal dryness and our intimate health. I found out that the most commonly searched terms are 'private parts' or 'menopausal vagina'. It made me feel sad to think that so many women are still w ..read more

Desire and libido ... and menopause, a subject that is often discussed (usually anonymously) on Facebook menopause support groups and very occasionally after a few glasses of wine with girlfriends but many women are simply too embarrassed to discuss their sex lives. Even with their husband or partner.  But if we don't, how do we understand what is normal, how can we resolve what might be really simple worries and find the rewarding, loving and happy sex life we deserve - yes even in our 50s and beyond! There is no 'normal' that you need to adhere to ... what works for one couple, may not ..read more

Some of you might have been following my new workout regime on my Instagram stories.  When I started my course of EMSculpt NEO, it was the perfect opportunity to get back to regular workouts and start strength training again. Caring for our body and keeping active is important at any age but as we approach menopause and head into our postmenopausal years, it becomes even more important! I am fortunate to be small and I am a healthy weight, I acknowledge I don't look my age - currently 56 but I still need to put the effort in to achieve my body goals. And a healthy diet and regular exercis ..read more

It's been a whole year since I travelled up to Tintern in Wales to join a women's only retreat, Awaken the Creatrix - Walk and Write Retreat .  I was so inspired, so energised, hopeful that the challenges of a pandemic were behind us and better days were ahead.  I remember being so determined to embrace positive thoughts, up my self-care, journal and walk in nature.  And yet many of you following my blog and my social media will have noticed that despite my determination to look after myself better, this last year has turned out to be one of my most challenging yet.  The lo ..read more