“In 2020 I had surgery for breast cancer. This was a huge step into the unknown and quite terrifying at times; it was also a big eye-opener.

Medically induced menopause, either through surgery, chemotherapy or via drugs such as tamoxifen can cause intense genitourinary syndrome which can really affect quality of life. The experience highlighted the lack of products for women who develop vulvo-vaginal symptoms and can’t or prefer not to use hormone-based products.

Although most women can use a low dose topical vaginal oestrogen cream, clinicians are always cautious, particularly with a diagnosis of hormone-sensitive tumours. We wanted to develop a product that women could use as an alternative or alongside hormone-based preparations.”

By providing resources and education Tessa, is helping women to take control of their bodies and to understand that many symptoms do not have to be endured - they can be quickly and easily treated. Nu is a simple, natural solution to a problem shared by all women at some stage of their lives, be it postpartum, menopause or as a side effect of treatment or medication.

Tessa was born and educated in the UK and has lived around the globe. She lives in Christchurch with her daughter and is totally addicted to Reformer Pilates but couldn’t orienteer her way out of a paper bag.