At La Maleta Roja, we’ve spent more than 20 years supporting women through this very moment — when they feel ready to take the plunge for the first time, whether at 25 or 55, and aren’t quite sure where to start.
There’s no “right” age to take this step, and you don’t need to have any prior experience either. In fact, many women reach this point now, when they have more time, know themselves better, and feel less pressure to please anyone but themselves.
Why now, and why it’s not as unusual as it seems
According to the Menopause Barometer, eight in ten women over 40 are concerned about symptoms associated with this stage, but only six in ten have ever consulted a healthcare professional. This same lack of information carries over into self-discovery: many women reach 50 without ever exploring what gives them pleasure, not because they aren’t interested, but because they never had the space or clear information to do so.
That’s changing. We see it all the time at our talks: more and more women understand that starting now isn’t “too late”—it’s simply the moment when they finally give themselves permission.
What to consider before choosing
Your body at 50 isn’t the same as it was at 25, and that can affect your choice too. During perimenopause and menopause, the skin and mucous membranes often become more sensitive and need more lubrication. This doesn’t rule out any type of accessory, but it does point toward soft materials and designs made for gradual rather than intense stimulation right from the start.
Practical tips
- If you’ve never used one before, start with an external or gentle-stimulation design rather than one that’s more intense or penetrative.
- Always choose certified medical-grade silicone that’s phthalate-free and odorless.
- Keep a water-based lubricant on hand that’s compatible with medical-grade silicone; at 50, it almost always makes the experience better.
- Don’t look for the “perfect” accessory right away — think of it as a starting point for getting to know yourself, not a final purchase.
- If you have concerns about dryness, sensitivity, or any medical condition, consult your gynecologist before getting started.
Between us
When you’ve been in the industry for more than 20 years, and your audience, like you, is reaching maturity, being able to recommend an accessory that opens the door to new experiences and sensations is one of the most rewarding parts of our work. As we say: it’s never, ever too late. Never stop being curious. Never stop growing.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal not to know what gives me pleasure at 50?
Yes, it’s more common than you might think. Many women never had the space or information to explore this before, and there’s nothing wrong with starting now.
What’s the safest material for more sensitive skin?
Medical-grade silicone: nonporous, hypoallergenic, and easy to clean—ideal for skin that’s more sensitive due to hormonal changes.
Do I need prior experience to use an intimate accessory?
Not at all. Designs made for beginners are usually simple, with just a few functions and gentle intensity levels.
What size is best to start with?
For a first time, it’s generally best to choose a small or medium size, with an external design rather than a penetrative one. You can always try other options later, based on what you discover you enjoy.
Is it normal to feel embarrassed buying my first one?
Yes, it’s a very common reaction, even among people who’ve been wanting to take the plunge for years. Shopping discreetly and at your own pace, without pressure, usually helps that embarrassment pass quickly.
How should I store an intimate accessory?
Keep it somewhere clean and dry, preferably in its own bag or case, and avoid direct contact with other accessories made of different materials.
Will it arrive in discreet packaging?
At La Maleta Roja, yes — shipping and packaging are designed not to reveal what’s inside, with the recipient’s privacy in mind.
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If you’d like to start with an accessory that feels soft to the touch and is comfortable to handle, Sweetie is a very good option.
