The average age for the menopause in the UK is 51 with a range from 45-55 and it heralds a number of changes to physiological mechanisms due to associated hormonal changes – principally reduction in oestrogen.
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The average life expectancy for women is now 86 which means nearly 40 years in a postmenopausal state. Whilst some women may get very little in the way of symptoms and for others symptoms that they do notice are manageable most women will notice some change and there is a significant impact on long-term health. On average symptoms last for 4 years from the last period but for some the duration is much longer. Symptoms typically start before periods stop and this is called the perimenopause.
Effects of the peri-menopause/menopause include:
Whilst menopause can sometimes be diagnosed based on a combination of someone's age, and reported symptoms, diagnostic tests can confirm menopause.
Our menopause service begins with an assessment of your symptoms and we can offer a menopause diagnostic package that includes a consultation and a set of diagnostic tests including blood tests and an ultrasound.
Deciding whether to use HRT is a complex decision but many of the effects of the menopause can be prevented with the potential to improve day to day quality of life and long-term health.
There are a number of different ways of taking HRT including tablets, patches or topical gels. The combination of hormones and which route will work best is a very individual decision with each having different pros and cons. There are also a number of individual risk factors (e.g. your weight, whether you smoke and your personal or family medical history).
Breast Cancer:
Heart disease and stroke:
During a consultation a comprehensive assessment is made, what options are available and which treatment is likely to give the most benefit are discussed and if appropriate a prescription for treatment provided.
We have brought together a group of leading gynaecologists and breast specialists to form our Women’s Health team. With over 200 years of combined experience, these expert clinicians are the best in their field and are all focused on delivering the very best patient care.