Menopause is a natural biological phase in a woman’s life, officially defined as the absence of menstrual periods for a consecutive year. In the United Kingdom, the average age of menopause is around 51, but the transitional phase, known as perimenopause, can commence as early as age 45. During this time, menstrual cycles may become irregular, characterized by lighter and less frequent periods.
The myriad symptoms experienced during menopause result from a decline in estrogen production by the ovaries. Among these symptoms, hot flushes and night sweats are the most prevalent, often accompanied by sleep disturbances, mood fluctuations, anxiety, cognitive challenges colloquially referred to as “brain fog,” urinary issues, and vaginal dryness.
Diagnosing menopause typically relies on symptomatology, with hormone tests offering insight, especially for women under the age of 45.
Managing menopausal symptoms involves a range of options, both hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) stands out as the most effective method, involving the replacement of estrogen to alleviate symptoms. For those with a uterus, progestogen is concurrently administered with estrogen to safeguard against the thickening effects of estrogen on the uterine lining. Together, estrogen and progestogen constitute the major components of HRT, offering a comprehensive approach to symptom control during this transformative phase in a woman’s life.
Occasionally testosterone is added to this regime if indicated. In the UK, testosterone remains unlicensed for general use, but it is employed to address low libido.
Hot off the Press
FEZOLINETANT is a new drug used to treat hot flushes and sweats
This was approved by the MHRA in December 2023 and should be available for private prescription from January 2024
A very exciting time as this drug will be a game changer for those who cannot take HRT or do not wish to take it