Ahead of World Menopause Day this coming Sunday, 18th October, and in conjunction with the Change Society (CHFT's dedicated menopause support group), here's more information to help raise awareness of menopause, and highlight the support available to colleagues. Awareness activities will take place at CHFT week commencing Monday, 19th October.

Last week we looked at what the menopause is and some of the symptoms that occur during perimenopause and post-menopause.  Today we’re looking into the medical routes for treating symptoms.

One of the best-known treatments is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), which works by replacing the hormones that naturally decline during menopause.  The type of HRT you’re offered will depend on whether you still have periods or not, or if you have had your womb removed.

HRT can help reduce hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes and vaginal dryness, while also supporting bone health. It is available in several forms, including tablets, patches, gels and sprays, allowing treatment to be tailored to individual needs. The types of HRT available include Oestrogen (tablets, patches, spray or gel), Progestogen (tablets, patches or hormonal coil) and Testosterone (gel or cream).  Oestrogen works to help manage symptoms with progestogen working to protect your womb and testosterone to help with low libido.

For those who cannot or choose not to take HRT, there are other medical options. Certain prescription medications can help reduce hot flushes and improve mood, or even make heavy periods lighter, while vaginal oestrogen treatments can effectively manage symptoms such as dryness and discomfort without significantly affecting hormone levels throughout the body.

Regular health reviews are an important part of menopause management. Please speak with your GP in the first instance.  You might find the symptom checker included in our Menopause Passport on the intranet, helpful in that conversation.

Medical treatments are about helping people manage symptoms, maintain wellbeing and continue to live confidently and comfortably. Understanding the options available is the first step towards making informed choices and finding the support that works best for you.

The Change Society at CHFT is here to support you with information, support and guidance around the menopause transition and is for those going through the menopause as well as anyone who is involved in supporting someone who is going through the menopause.  We talk openly about symptoms and the impact of these on our work and home life.  We talk about the things that help us and those things which don’t. 

We have an active Teams chat and regular meetings.  If you want to get involved or just get more information, please email ODTeam@cht.nhs.uk.  We look forward to supporting you!