Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MSt MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Menopause Symptoms
- Common symptoms of menopause include hot flushes and night sweats, sleep disturbances, low mood and anxiety, and cognitive symptoms NICE CKS.
- Genitourinary symptoms, such as those affecting vaginal health, can also occur NICE NG23.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment option for menopausal symptoms NICE CKS.
- For women with a uterus, combined HRT (oestrogen plus progestogen) is typically offered, while women who have had a hysterectomy may be offered oestrogen-only HRT NICE NG23.
- HRT is most effective for a range of menopausal symptoms, and benefits may outweigh risks for many women under 60 years of age or within 10 years of menopause onset NICE CKS.
- Treatment should be individualised based on the woman's clinical presentation, risks, benefits, treatment goals, and personal preference NICE CKS.
- The lowest effective dosage should be used, and treatment duration should be discussed at the outset and reviewed at each appointment NICE NG23.
- For vasomotor symptoms, transdermal oestradiol plus progestogen is considered the most effective treatment for women with a uterus NICE CKS.
- For genitourinary symptoms, low-dose vaginal oestrogen is recommended as a first-line treatment NICE NG23.
- Lifestyle measures such as regular exercise, weight loss (if applicable), wearing lighter clothing, and reducing stress can also help manage symptoms NICE CKS.