Sexual Health and Intimacy for All Bodies

In this episode of The Choice Space, Dr Lee David speaks with Samantha Evans, sexual health and pleasure expert and co-founder of Jo Divine, about sexual health, intimacy and how our relationship with our bodies can change across life.The conversation explores how changes in hormones, health and life experiences can affect desire, comfort and confidence. They discuss how common issues such as vaginal dryness, irritation and reduced sensation are often misunderstood – and how small, practical changes can make a meaningful difference.They also reflect on why sexual health is still difficult to talk about, both for individuals and healthcare professionals. Samantha shares insights into how shame, lack of education and cultural messaging can prevent people from seeking help, and why open, informed conversations can support both physical and emotional wellbeing.The discussion highlights the importance of inclusive language and avoiding assumptions about age, identity or relationships. It explores how intimacy can take many forms and how people can reconnect with their bodies – and with others – in ways that feel right for them.This is a thoughtful and practical conversation about understanding change, reducing self-judgement and finding new ways to approach intimacy across different stages of life.Key moments00:00 Why sexual health matters02:30 Common intimacy concerns06:00 Vaginal dryness and irritation09:30 Ingredients and product awareness12:00 Inclusivity in sexual health14:30 Why it’s hard to talk about sex18:00 Intimacy, grief and loss21:20 Myths about desire and arousal23:30 Aging, identity and assumptions25:10 Body image and confidence27:30 Self-criticism and kindness29:00 Choosing intimacy on your termsAbout the guestSamantha Evans is a sexual health and pleasure expert, former nurse and co-founder of Jo Divine, an online company specialising in skin-safe, irritant-free sexual wellbeing products. She works with healthcare professionals across the NHS and private practice to support patients with sexual function, intimacy and pleasure, including lubricants, vaginal moisturisers and appropriate products. Samantha is also a writer and educator, producing practical resources that help normalise conversations about sex and support people to explore intimacy in ways that work for them. She collaborates with cancer and menopause charities, delivers training and webinars for healthcare professionals, and has contributed to media discussions on sexual health, including appearing in Sex, Myths and the Menopause. You can connect via the Jo Divine website, Facebook or Instagram: @samtalkssex and @jo.divine10% discount code for Jo Divine: CHOICESPACE (£5 minimum spend on full priced products excluding P&P) ENDS 30/6/26 About the hostDr Lee David is a GP, CBT therapist and author specialising in mental health and wellbeing. Lee has written many books on CBT, mindfulness and teen wellbeing, and speaks regularly at conferences and in the media. Away from work she enjoys running, hiking, singing in a choir and spending time outdoors with her family. You can find Lee through her website and on Instagram, TikTok (@dr.lee.david), Facebook and LinkedIn.  You can find more about her books, wellbeing courses and therapy here:  https://linktr.ee/dr.lee.david