Private lives

It’s time to pull back the covers and talk about sex and relationships for women of all ages.

In today's feature article, we take a close look at the ebb and flow of libido (sex drive), and how to navigate the waves of change. On the Jean Hailes podcast for our Women's Health Week series, we talk to inspirational sexuality educator Vanessa Hamilton, who is changing the way we teach adults and children about sex.

Talking tricky (but important) topics is on the agenda today with extra resources about painful sex, vulvas and vaginas, sex in later life, and sexually transmissible infections (STIs). We also speak to the experts for their tips on how to have better conversations around sex and sexuality.

Through the course of a lifetime, our relationship with sex can ebb and flow. What’s more, how much it matters – or not – varies greatly from woman to woman.

Here we talk to the experts about the common changes that can occur in the sex lives of women, so you know what to expect, when to roll with the changes and when to reach out for support.

• Fact sheet: 'Cervical Screening Test'

• Health topic: sex and sexual health

• Article: 'Responding to sexual assault: a practical guide'

• Video: 'Sexual Health: Women’s Stuff'

• Podcast: 'Low libido & testosterone therapy'