Download with Dr Kelly for July 2025

As we wrap up Intimate Health Month here at The M Clinic, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible response to our Intimate Health Survey, which ran throughout the month of June. While we’re still waiting for the final results, I’m excited to share some important insights into the topic of intimacy during menopause, and why it’s so crucial that we continue these conversations.

Why the Survey Matters

The goal of our survey was simple: we wanted to better understand how menopause and perimenopause impact women’s intimate health and relationships. 

Intimacy can often take a back seat during this phase of life due to symptoms like vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, reduced libido, and psychological effects such as mood swings or anxiety. However, we know that intimacy is an important part of overall well-being, and it deserves more attention.

Statistics show that nearly 50% of women report a decrease in libido during the menopause transition. Yet, despite the fact that intimacy plays a vital role in emotional and physical health, many women feel uncomfortable discussing it with their healthcare providers. 

This is why we decided to run the survey—to create a space where women could share their experiences anonymously and without judgment.

What We’re Learning

Some general trends continue to emerge in the survey, medical literature and from the conversations I have with patients every day. A few important things include:

• Vaginal Dryness and Painful Intercourse: According to studies, approximately 50-70% of women experience vaginal dryness during menopause. This can lead to painful sex (dyspareunia) and a lack of interest in intimacy. The decline in estrogen levels causes the vaginal tissues to become thinner, drier, and less elastic, making sex uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are effective treatments like vaginal estrogen that can address these concerns and improve comfort.

• Libido and Desire: Around 50% of women experience a reduction in libido during menopause. This is due in part to changes in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, which affect both physical sensations and psychological factors like mood and energy levels. Low libido can be exacerbated by other menopause symptoms such as sleep disturbances, hot flashes, and anxiety. Testosterone therapy, when appropriate, can help address libido concerns, as it plays a crucial role in sexual arousal and overall well-being.

• Urinary and Pelvic Health: Many women also report increased issues with urinary frequency, incontinence, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) as they go through menopause. These symptoms are often caused by a drop in estrogen, which affects the urinary tract and pelvic floor muscles. Regular pelvic floor exercises and treatments like vaginal estrogen can help strengthen these areas and improve symptoms.

Your Voice is Vital

One of the most encouraging aspects of the survey is that we have received responses from women across all stages of menopause. This year we received over 70 submissions, compared to 25 last year which is a great result. This highlights just how important it is to talk openly about the challenges women face and to address those concerns head-on. We believe that sharing our experiences is not only empowering, but it helps create a community of women who can support one another through these changes.

While we’re still analysing the results of the survey, we already know that many of you are struggling with similar issues, and that makes it even more essential that we continue to discuss the physical and emotional aspects of intimacy during menopause. These conversations help us understand how we can better serve women in our community and make sure that they feel heard, supported, and confident in seeking help.

Thank You for Participating

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in the survey. Your responses are invaluable, and your willingness to share your experiences allows us to continue providing better, more personalised care at The M Clinic. 

If you’re experiencing any issues with intimacy, libido, or vaginal health, I encourage you to book a consultation with me. There are treatments available that can help improve your comfort and confidence, and I’m here to guide you through your menopause journey.

Menopause is an evolution, not the end. You deserve to feel vibrant, comfortable, and empowered through this phase of life—and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Dr. Kelly Needham

Founder & Owner

The M Clinic & Coastal Goddess