Here is a selection of resources tried and tested by both patients and clinicians. There will be overlap

For an overview of the menopause try one of these:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/

https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause

HRT is one option but what happens if you can’t have it or don’t want it:

https://patient.info/womens-health/menopause/alternatives-to-hrt

https://www.talkworks.dpt.nhs.uk/workshops/talkworks-for-menopause Free 6 week CBT course from the NHS

An excellent visual representation of the risks and benefits of HRT: (select your age etc on the left hand menu) https://wellspring.health/hrt/

HRT may not be suitable if you:

· have a history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer or womb cancer

· have a history of blood clots

· have untreated high blood pressure – your blood pressure will need to be controlled before you can start HRT

· have liver disease

· are pregnant – it's still possible to get pregnant while taking HRT, so you should use contraception until 2 years after your last period if you're under 50, or for 1 year after the age of 50

Ladies on HRT are advised to have a yearly blood pressure check as part of their annual review for HRT

To check your Blood pressure, you can often borrow a machine from a friend of family member (target for most people will be under 140/90), or you can pop into the surgery and use our Hub in main reception – no appointment needed. Day Lewis pharmacy also provide a drop in BP checking service

We are running Video Group Clinics to help our patients who think they are menopausal (or perimenopausal). This is for new patients (rather than those already on treatment) who are interested in hearing how to manage their symptoms. Maximum of 8 patients per session and done via Microsoft Teams. This usually takes around 1 hour and gives time to share your experiences and learn about your options. It can be just over this if we have a chatty group!

HRT followups are done via text message if all going well.