Menopause treatments: Understanding your healthcare options

Menopause is the time when your periods stop. It occurs 12 months after your last period and involves your ovaries no longer releasing any hormones. Most women undergo menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, but it can happen earlier. The peri-menopause is a time when periods can be either regular or erratic with associated menopausal symptoms and this can sometimes begin in the late 30s/ early 40s.

As your menstrual cycle ends, it causes significant hormonal changes, leading to a wide range of symptoms. For some women, these symptoms are mild, while others may face more intense symptoms that can last for several years.

Treating menopause symptoms is a common option for women who experience long-lasting or severe symptoms. Women can choose to seek treatment through the NHS or opt for care from a private provider.

In this guide:

• Menopause symptoms
• Treating menopause symptoms
• NHS vs. private menopause treatments

Menopause symptoms

Menopause occurs when you’ve not had a period for at least 12 months. Usually, there’s a time between your menstrual cycle becoming disrupted and the final onset of menopause. This is called perimenopause.

Symptoms of perimenopause have a big impact on your life. They can range from mild to severe and can last for months or even years. The most common symptom is a change in the normal pattern of your periods. Typically, your periods become more irregular, they can also become heavier and more painful

Other menopausal symptoms include:

Mental Health Symptoms:

• Mood swings
• Anxiety or depression
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory issues

Physical Symptoms:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Sleep disturbances
• Vaginal dryness
• Decreased libido
• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Joint and muscle pain

Your symptoms can evolve throughout perimenopause. Some symptoms may remain, while others get better. All of these symptoms are linked to hormonal changes – and can persist into the post-menopause.

Treating menopause symptoms

The most effective treatment for menopause and perimenopausal symptoms is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). If you choose not to have HRT, several other treatment options are available.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy is the standard treatment option for menopause symptoms. It’s prescribed to women who have severe or long-lasting symptoms.

HRT contains oestrogen, replacing your body’s own hormones, which decline during perimenopause. HRT is considered safe for women within 10 years of menopause or before the age of 60. Some women continue to take HRT as they may still have symptoms; the other long-term effects of hormones is to protect bone health, reducing their risk of osteoporosis; however the current recommendation is to use HRT to treat symptoms of oestrogen deficiency.

HRT is helpful for:

• hot flashes
• night sweats
• vaginal dryness
• painful sex; and other menopausal symptoms.

Oestrogen comes in several different forms, including patches, gels, spray that are used on the skin and tablets. Taking HRT provides significant relief for many women; however, there is a potential increased risk of certain cancers (slightly increased risk), blood clots and high blood pressure (on oral oestrogen), and more. Speak to your GP for further information.

Other hormone treatments

Some women prefer not to use HRT. Testosterone gel for reduced sex drive. Usually prescribed by a specialist doctor, testosterone gel can improve libido. This is usually recommended once HRT has helped the other menopausal symptoms apart from libido. Side effects include acne and unwanted hair growth. You should wash your hands thoroughly after use.

• Oestrogen for vaginal dryness and discomfort. Localised oestrogen treatments, such as creams or pessaries, help improve vaginal dryness. Unlike HRT, there are no systemic effects – in fact, the two treatments can be used together.

Non-hormonal treatments

Non-hormone menopause treatments are for women who choose not to have HRT or cannot have hormones and are struggling with specific symptoms. Options include:

• Hot flushes and night sweats. Medications like Oxybutinin (used for urinary urgency), Clonidine (a blood pressure medicine) and Gabapentin (an epilepsy medicine) may help. Consult a GP about their suitability and potential side effects.
• Mood symptoms. Antidepressants may be prescribed if depression/ mood swings or anxiety are the main symptoms.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This talking therapy can address low mood, anxiety, and some physical symptoms like hot flashes and joint pain. NHS talking therapy is accessible without a GP referral.

Osteoporosis medications may also be necessary long-term if you show signs of low bone density. Your GP may advise taking calcium and vitamin D supplements or having a bone density test, particularly if you’re in a high-risk category.

NHS vs. private menopause treatments

Under the NHS, menopausal treatments are prescribed and managed by your GP. Only in severe cases are patients referred to a specialist – or if another condition complicates your treatment. Because your GP handles the majority of your care, you’ll receive fast and efficient treatment. However, if you require specialist treatment, long waiting times can become a problem.

Private healthcare, on the other hand, offers fast, efficient, and personalised treatment. You’ll benefit from a personalised care plan, extended consultations with specialists, and the flexibility to choose medications with your doctor. Many UK private healthcare providers offer menopause treatment packages, though costs can remain high.

Let’s compare your options:

If you require specialist menopause treatments, there is an alternative to private healthcare. Your ‘right to choose’ means you can decide on your provider and clinical team. That means you can skip long wait times and choose the best option for you. Speak to your GP to get a greater understanding of your options.

Receive Rapid Specialist Menopause Care with Medefer

You don’t need to go private to receive the fastest or best treatment. When your GP refers you to a specialist for menopause treatment, you can choose Medefer. Instead of waiting weeks, a consultant will review your case within 48 hours. If additional tests are needed, Medefer will handle everything, from scheduling to providing timely follow-up care.

Next time you need a non-urgent menopause referral, ask for Medefer. Contact us at patients@medefer.com or call 08000 112 113.