The world of menopause and treatment can be incredibly difficult to wade through. Our team can help you with any specific questions you may have about your options. However, we want to help ensure there is reliable information available for patients online. That is why we have collated answers to the questions we get asked most frequently.
How Do I Know If I Am Perimenopausal/ Menopausal?
Perimenopausal symptoms include periods becoming lighter or infrequent along with symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, memory problems, joint pains etc.
Menopause occurs 12 months after the last menstrual periods. In the UK the average age of menopause is 51.
Do We Need Blood Tests to Diagnose Menopause?
Blood tests are more used to assess response to treatment than to diagnose menopause.
They are useful to diagnose menopause if symptoms occur under the age of 40 (also known as premature ovarian failure).
They do hold value between the ages of 40-45 if diagnosis is uncertain.
Over the age of 45 they do not have any value due to variation in hormone levels
Do I have to stop HRT at age 60?
Between ages 50-60 is called ‘the window of opportunity’ where HRT is beneficial to bone health (protects against osteoporosis) and protects against cardiovascular risk.
Beyond this age there may still be a bone protective effect but there is no protection against cardiovascular disease.
However, HRT may be needed for symptom relief and many women continue to use it past the age of 60.
Can I use HRT if I have Breast Cancer?
HRT is not recommended in those who have had a history of breast cancer but if menopausal symptoms have a severe impact on quality of life some forms of HRT can be used in consultation with your breast surgeon.
Do you Prescribe Testosterone?
Yes testosterone is prescribed but not routinely to every individual. It is mainly prescribed for low libido if it persists after attaining adequate oestrogen levels on HRT.
It is not licenced for female use in the UK. There are various formulations that can be prescribed in the form of creams or gels. Androfeme is the only female product that has been licenced in Australia and is available to purchase on a private prescription.
Can I Take only Testosterone?
Testosterone is prescribed in conjunction with conventional HRT.
How do I Book a Consultation?
For a face-to-face consultation,you can contact Cyncoed consulting rooms and for virtual appointments book on our online booking system.
Do I need to be Referred by my GP?
No, most women who come to us do so via self-referral. However, if you have blood test results or other medical information, it could be useful to bring those to your consultation.
How much does a Consultation Cost?
The initial consultation is £250. This includes the cost of your prescription. Follow up appointments are £150 and any prescriptions outside of these appointments are £35.
How often do I need to be seen?
We recommend a follow up appointment three months after your initial consultation. As our services are completely personalised, we will tailor our services and your follow up plan for your specific needs. If you are seen more than a year later than your initial consultation, you will be classified as a new patient.
What are the most common symptoms of menopause?
Hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, irregular periods, fatigue, and sleep issues are common. Every woman experiences menopause differently, and we tailor care to your unique symptoms.
At what age should I consider seeing a menopause specialist?
If menopause symptoms are affecting your daily life, it’s worth consulting a specialist. Symptoms can occur as early as late thirties sometimes .
How long does menopause typically last?
Menopausal symptoms last for an average of 7 years and a lot of women experience symptoms for a few years beyond that.
What are the main treatment options for menopause symptoms?
Options include lifestyle adjustments, non-hormonal treatments, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). We’ll guide you to the safest and most effective approach for your needs.
How safe is hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
HRT is generally safe when monitored by a specialist. We review your medical history, lifestyle, and preferences to minimise risk and maximise benefit.
Can I have a virtual consultation?
Yes. Virtual consultations allow you to discuss symptoms and treatment from the comfort of your home, giving you flexibility and convenience.
Can menopause cause mood changes, sleep issues, or hair/skin changes?
Yes. Hormonal changes can affect mood, sleep, libido, and hair/skin health. Lifestyle measures and treatment options can help manage these effects.
What is your cancellation policy?
We have a 48-hour cancellation policy, which means if you cancel at least 48 hours before your appointment, you won’t incur any fees. Unfortunately, if you cancel at short notice, fees are non-refundable.
What is your late arrival policy?
In order to be conscientious of our clients’ time, we cannot see clients who are more than 15 minutes late. If you’re more than 15 minutes late, it will be taken as a last-minute cancellation, and you may incur fees.
Are my details safe?
Yes, of course. We take your privacy and security seriously, which is why we ensure all notes and payment details are stored securely so you can have complete peace of mind.