Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause, when hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms may begin even if periods are still happening. Menopause is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period, when no other cause explains the change.

The free call is designed to explain the service, answer initial questions and help you decide whether an initial menopause consultation is right for you. It is not a diagnostic appointment and does not replace a full clinical assessment.

The initial menopause consultation guide price is £175. For follow-up appointments, blood tests, repeat prescriptions, packages and the latest fee information, please check our pricing page.

Your practitioner will review your symptoms, cycle history, medical history, medication, risk factors and goals. You can discuss treatment options, whether blood tests are useful, and whether follow-up, prescriptions or another pathway may be appropriate.

Not always. In many women over 45, menopause can be assessed from symptoms and period changes. Blood tests may be useful in younger women, if symptoms are unusual, to rule out other causes, or before considering certain treatments such as testosterone.

Hormone treatment may be discussed and prescribed only where clinically appropriate after consultation and assessment. The consultation focuses on your symptoms, medical history, benefits, risks, alternatives and monitoring needs.

Body-identical HRT usually refers to licensed medicines containing hormones that are chemically identical to hormones naturally produced by the body, such as oestradiol and micronised progesterone. This is different from compounded “bio-identical” hormones, which are not regulated in the same way as licensed medicines.

For many women, the benefits of HRT can outweigh the risks, but suitability is individual. Risks and benefits depend on age, medical history, type of HRT, route, dose, duration and personal risk factors. This is discussed during consultation.

Yes. Low oestrogen can affect the vulva, vagina, bladder and urethra. This is often called genitourinary syndrome of menopause. It may cause dryness, discomfort, painful sex, urgency, recurrent UTI-type symptoms or irritation. These symptoms are common and can be discussed discreetly.

Testosterone may be considered in selected women with persistent low sexual desire after assessment. It is not a general treatment for tiredness, weight, mood or brain fog. A blood test and careful monitoring are required if it is considered appropriate.

Some women may discuss non-hormonal medication options, menopause-specific CBT, lifestyle changes, sleep support, vaginal moisturisers, lubricants, pelvic floor support or other strategies depending on symptoms and suitability.

These situations can be more complex and often need tailored assessment. Early menopause, premature ovarian insufficiency and surgical menopause can affect symptoms, fertility, bone health, heart health and long-term planning, so they should be discussed properly.

Possibly. Periods becoming irregular does not automatically mean pregnancy is impossible. Contraception, Mirena coil use, and the role of Mirena as part of some HRT regimens can be discussed during consultation where relevant.

Hormonal change can contribute to anxiety, low mood, irritability and sleep disturbance, but these symptoms can also have other causes. A consultation can help explore whether menopause may be contributing and what treatment or support options may be appropriate.

You can still start with a discussion. Some women may need additional checks, shared care, specialist advice or referral before treatment decisions are made. We will be clear about what can be safely managed and what may need another pathway.

Often, yes. Menopause care may require review, dose adjustment, symptom tracking, side-effect discussion and ongoing risk-benefit review. The number and timing of follow-ups depends on your plan.

Postmenopausal or unexplained bleeding, new pelvic pain, severe low mood or crisis symptoms, persistent urinary symptoms, possible infection or sudden new symptoms should be assessed properly and not assumed to be menopause.

You can start by booking the free 20-minute telephone consultation. If you wish to continue, you can then arrange an initial menopause consultation. Pricing and the latest fees are available on our pricing page.

Fezolinetant is a non-hormonal option that may be discussed for selected women with troublesome hot flushes or night sweats where it is appropriate. Suitability, risks, availability and alternatives must be reviewed at consultation.

Different routes have different uses. Systemic HRT may be delivered by patch, gel, spray or tablet, while vaginal oestrogen is used locally for vulval, vaginal and urinary symptoms. The right route depends on symptoms, medical history, risk factors and preference.

Yes, where relevant. Vaginal DHEA, local vaginal oestrogen, moisturisers, lubricants and wider intimate health options may be discussed for genitourinary symptoms of menopause. The right option depends on your history and symptoms.

Video consultations may be suitable for some women, depending on their symptoms and clinical needs. Some concerns, such as bleeding, pelvic pain, intimate symptoms needing examination or coil-related questions, may be better assessed in clinic.