Menopause: What women want

Kathy Abernethy MClinSci RN

Menopause Clinical and Research Unit, Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow

www.themenopausecourse.com

What women don’t want

•“Quick fix”•To be fobbed off•To be patronised•To be stereotyped

What women want…

•To know if it’s menopause•?blood tests•History/assessment

•To understand what is happening•What’s normal?•How long will it last?

What women want…

•To be taken seriously•Discussion about symptoms•Treatment options•Self help•Side effects/risks/benefits

What women want..

• Choices• Lifestyle measures• HRT• Non hormonal medication• Therapeutic approach

• Signposting

Signposting

• Weightwatchers/Slimming Club/Gym• www.menopausematters.co.uk• www.womens-health-concern.org.uk• www.daisynetwork.org.uk• Specialist Clinic/Gynaecologist/Other

practitioners

What women need

• Realistic expectations• Realistic goals• Improved future health

The Young?

Summary

•To feel normal

•To be able to work and socialise as usual

•To make positive changes for future health