Following International Women’s Day, this episode of Family Matters focuses on an aspect of women’s health that is increasingly discussed, but still widely misunderstood: menopause.

Hannah Nicholls and Amy Walpole are joined by Zoe Lapwood, a registered nurse with over 10 years’ experience specialising in women’s health and a nurse adviser for a national women’s health charity.

The episode explores what menopause and perimenopause are, highlighting the many physical, emotional and psychological symptoms women can experience, often years before menopause itself. Zoe discusses how these changes can affect confidence, communication, intimacy and decision‑making, and how this can place additional strain on relationships, particularly at times of separation or divorce.

The conversation also addresses common myths around menopause, th ...