Some symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause, such as changes in mood, sleep, energy and concentration, can have other causes too.

During your consultation, your doctor or nurse will listen to your symptoms and take a detailed medical history to help understand what may be contributing to how you’re feeling. If another health condition could be causing your symptoms, they may recommend further assessment or tests.

Menopause usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, but symptoms can start earlier. Early menopause happens between the ages of 40 and 44, while menopause before the age of 40 is known as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).

At My Menopause Centre, we see women aged 30 and over who are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause, menopause or postmenopause. We can also help with early menopause, POI, and menopause caused by surgery or cancer treatment.

If you’re under 45, your age can affect how menopause is assessed and whether blood tests may be helpful. Your doctor or nurse can discuss this with you during your consultation.

Menopause is not usually diagnosed through blood testing. If you’re aged 45 or over and have typical menopause symptoms, perimenopause or menopause can usually be identified from your symptoms and menstrual history.

Blood tests can be helpful in some circumstances. For example, an FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) blood test may be considered if you’re aged 40 to 45 and have menopause symptoms alongside a change in your menstrual cycle, or if you’re under 40 and menopause is suspected.

Other blood tests may sometimes be recommended to investigate another possible cause of your symptoms or as part of the safe monitoring of certain treatments. Your doctor or nurse will discuss whether any tests are appropriate for you.

No. You don’t need a referral from your GP or another doctor to book a consultation with My Menopause Centre.

If you have relevant letters, blood test results or information from previous medical consultations, it can be helpful to have these available for your appointment.

Yes. You can book a consultation if you’re already taking HRT and would like your treatment reviewed.

Your doctor or nurse will discuss your symptoms, medical history, the HRT you’re currently using and how well it’s working for you. They can then discuss whether continuing your current treatment or making changes may be appropriate.

Please have details of your HRT and any other medicines you’re taking available for your consultation.

You can choose to have your consultation by secure video call or telephone.

Your initial consultation lasts around 45 minutes and is with a doctor or nurse experienced in managing menopause. You’ll have time to discuss your symptoms, medical history and treatment options, and you’ll receive an individual menopause treatment plan after your appointment.

To help your doctor or nurse make the most of your appointment, it’s useful to have:

* a recent blood pressure reading * your height and weight * details of any HRT you’ve previously tried * your medical and relevant family history * a list of medicines you’re currently taking * any relevant letters or recent blood test results.

Don’t worry if you don’t have everything available. We’re here to listen to you and your experiences. If more information is needed to help make a safe treatment decision, your doctor or nurse will discuss this with you.

Not necessarily. Your consultation is an opportunity to discuss your symptoms, medical history, preferences and the treatment options that may be suitable for you.

HRT is an effective treatment for many menopause symptoms, but it isn’t suitable or preferred by everyone. Your doctor or nurse will discuss the potential benefits and risks with you and, where appropriate, other treatment and lifestyle options.

If medication is recommended, your clinician will explain your treatment and how your prescription will be provided.

Your doctor or nurse will create an individual menopause treatment plan summarising what was discussed and agreed during your consultation.

If you start HRT, you’ll usually be asked to book a follow-up consultation after around three months to review how you’re getting on, discuss any side effects and decide whether any changes are needed.

Depending on your treatment and individual circumstances, you may also need blood tests or other follow-up. Your doctor or nurse will explain this to you.