Why does libido disappear in menopause — and is it ever coming back? That's the question pelvic health physiotherapist and author Lisa Fitzpatrick hears in her clinic almost every day, and it's the one we sit with in this episode.

Lisa's been treating women's pelvic and sexual health for over three decades. But it was her own menopause — arriving at the same time her relationship ended at 51 - that led to a deep unravelling and rebirth. She talks candidly about that collision, and how it became the reason she wrote Sexy Menopause.

We get into why libido changes in midlife are rarely just about hormones. Stress, safety, old trauma, and a nervous system that's never allowed to switch off all play a part — and Lisa explains why the usual advice to "just do your Kegels" can actually make things worse, not better. We also talk about the stigma that tells women to get quieter and less visible as they age, and why menopause can bring on the exact opposite: a real, useful "couldn't care less" energy.

This episode closes with one simple daily practice Lisa recommends to any woman who feels disconnected from her body — something you can start today, with your morning tea.

Full episode guide and show notes here: https://vitopia.ai/podcast

KEY LINKS

• Lisa Fitzpatrick's website: lisafitzpatrick.com.au
• Sexy Menopause (pre-order): sexymenopause.com — out 27 October 2026
• The Energy Audit for Women 40+: https://kelly-zbqk659r.scoreapp.com/
• Work with Kelly: kellynicholls.com
• Kelly on Instagram: @kellybnicholls
• Lisa on Instagram: @thelisafitzpatrick