EDUCATION FOR ALL
In 2021 Menopause Support revealed that 41% of UK medical schools don't have mandatory menopause education on their curriculum.
We say: Health professionals aren't adequately educated, and women aren't given routine consultations about the subject. The right training for health professionals means the right solutions and treatments will be offered. Women deserve up to date advice before they reach perimenopause so that they can make the right choices and lifestyle changes. There are only 118 menopause clinics recognised by the British Menopause Society.
2. STOP THE SCAREMONGERING
The official stance of the British Menopause Society is that for most women the benefits of HRT outweigh the risks.
We say: HRT is recommended by NICE as a first line and proven treatment for menopause symptoms. Evidence is clear that HRT begun before the age of 60 or within 10 years of the menopause is likely to be associated with a reduction in coronary heart disease, osteoporosis and cardiovascular mortality. Women who take HRT also have a lower future risk of type 2 diabetes, clinical depression, obesity, dementia and colon cancer.
3. PRESCRIBING RIGHT
Stats from the Nuffield Health Group revealed that just over a quarter of women who visited a GP said the possibility of their symptoms being menopause wasn't addressed. Only one in five was prescribed HRT.
We say: When women seek advice they are frequently dismissed or not offered first line treatment as per NICE guidance. In some parts of the country as few as one in ten women are taking HRT. For those who do not wish to or cannot take HRT, other options such as SSRI/SRNI antidepressants, Clonidine, CBT, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, yoga and acupuncture need to be explained and be available.
4. AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE HRT
HRT should be free in England as it is in Scotland and Wales. Refusing to urgently reduce the cost means that there is socioeconomic discrimination when it comes to menopause provision. Many women can't afford a regular prescription.
We say: HRT isn't a luxury and it ought to be available for all who wish to use it especially those who go through Primary Ovarian Insufficiency, Surgical or Chemical Menopause, who need HRT. Many women are already having to choose between heating and eating. Paying prescription charges simply isn't possible for thousands of women, even with an Annual Prepayment Certificate.