Women's Health

1. Do you know why progesterone wouldn't be prescribed in people who have had a hysterectomy when it has other functions in the body? 

   It can be prescribed by a specialist if they decided the other functions in the body need it however it is a very individualised approach. The main function of progesterone in HRT is to keep the lining of the womb or uterus thin so that we don’t grow a cancer risk from having oestrogen thicken it. 

2. What is the best course of action for those who are still on the contraceptive pill but are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause/menopause?

   The contraceptive pill can be used in conjunction with HRT.  For symptoms of the menopause explore a symptoms management approach by scoring the top 3 most bothersome symptoms.  Use these to inform a conversation with your GP about and develop an individual plan. It’s sometimes enough to tell your GP that things are changing, and you feel different.  You would need to be on the progesterone only mini pill up to the age of 55. 

3. As a workplace champion it is important for the person to be heard and seen, but how do we guide those people who have been to the GP potentially with perimenopausal symptoms that aren’t being recognised by their GP.  What would you recommend for someone to do in this situation? 

   Use resources such as the NICE guidance and health fact sheets from Women’s Health Concern for the parts that relate to you.  Complete a symptoms tracker over a period of 3 months and challenge your GP with this information.  You could suggest to speak to someone else who is more experienced of dealing with menopause within the Practice or perhaps get a referral into an NHS Menopause Clinic . Taking your symptoms and monitoring into account ask if it might it be helpful for you to carry out a 3 month trial of body identical trans dermal hormones and review.  This should only be done after screening for low iron, vitamin d thyroid function has been carried out.  You and your GP can then make an informed decision together and if your GP is not receptive to this suggestion then perhaps you make the decision to change GP. Remember we are the experts of our own body.

4. Is it an NHS standard that people who go through menopause always go to a GP for first line advice/treatment instead of being sent directly to a specialist?

   It is very challenging in many GP practices to get access to training. However, it is worth asking for a trained or specially trained GP in your practice if you are going for an appointment. The GP is your first line of contact as they know your former medical history, so you can have a good and safe balanced discussion. Just ensure you are prepared for your appointment with the most up to date trained GP or nurse.

5. Would you recommend any supplements that would be beneficial?

   Supplements; Vit D, Magnesium Citrate, Omega 3 and Fibre, fibre, fibre!!!!

6. Is it necessary to have an ultrasound scan prior to commencing HRT to make sure endometrium is thin?

   Absolutely NOT! No need to wait unless there are irregular bleeding issues to be sorted.

7. Do they still perform blood tests to see if you are starting menopause?

   Only if you are 45 years and under as per NICE guidance.

It was highlighted that local estrogen cream can be used to treat vaginal dryness, itching, burning, and painful or difficult urination in women who are experiencing or have experienced menopause. It can also reduce symptoms of urinary urgency, which is the sudden, strong need to urinate.

Blood, Sweats and Tears Menopause Event

On World Menopause day - 18 October 2023 we held this event at the Riverside Stadium in Middlesbrough.  Both professionals and members of the public were invited to this event which was filmed by Strive Academic Centre.  This is order for key information to continue to be utilised as a learning resource tool by relevant professionals and raise awareness to local people. 

Lisa Bosomworth - Project Lead opened the event and shared an emotional and heartfelt introduction about her own menopause experience. 

Introduction video (1 of 6)

There were 3 key speakers, click on their names for more information and to watch their videos: 

Dr Angela Wright(2 of 6) 

Alison Cullen(3 of 6) 

Sustain Nutrition(4 of 6) 

There were also stalls that showcased what other support is available across South Tees 

Support Services(5 of 6)  

At the end of the event attendee's were asked for their feedback which was captured in this final film 

 Feedback from attendees (6 of 6) 

HRT Prepayment Certificate

You can get an HRT prescription prepayment certificate (HRT PPC) from the NHS if you’ve been prescribed an eligible hormone replacement therapy (HRT) medicine.

Click here for more information and how to apply.

Click here to find out what medicines are included in the HRT PPC.

Click here to find out which medications are not covered using the HRT PPC.

Links to useful websites:

Perimenopause Support UK

The Menopause Charity

Menopause Support UK

Balance Menopause