Our GPs can provide private prescriptions for any recommended HRT treatment. We work closely with a partner online pharmacy who have a good stock of HRT medication which can be delivered directly to your door normally within 24 hours.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which involves supplementing the body with oestrogen and sometimes progesterone and testosterone, has been associated with weight changes in some women however other studies show no significant difference in weight compared to women not using HRT. Many women report that they actually lose weight when they begin HRT treatment and find their hormones are more balanced. It’s important to note that individual responses to HRT can vary, and factors such as age, dosage, duration of use, and lifestyle habits may influence weight changes.

Body identical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) refers to hormone medications that contain hormones that are structurally identical to the hormones naturally produced by the human body. Body identical HRT is derived from the yam plant and includes oestrogen which is delivered through the skin in the form of gels, patches and sprays and micronized progesterone sold as Utrogestan in the UK. The term “body identical” is used to emphasize that the hormones used in these treatments are chemically indistinguishable from the hormones naturally produced by the body and are the type of HRT recommended by menopause specialists.

Transdermal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves delivering hormones into the body through the skin via patches, gels, creams or sprays. In transdermal HRT, hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone are absorbed directly through the skin and into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. Transdermal HRT offers an alternative to oral hormone medications and allows for more consistent hormone levels throughout the day. Many women at increased risk of stroke can safely take transdermal HRT because the oestrogen goes directly through the skin and into the bloodstream bypassing the liver.

The Mirena Coil, also known as the hormonal intrauterine device (IUD), is primarily used as a form of contraception. However, it can also be utilized as a component of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women who have a uterus.

When used in HRT, the Mirena Coil releases a small amount of the progestin hormone levonorgestrel directly into the uterus. This localized hormone delivery can help protect the uterine lining from the potential overgrowth associated with oestrogen-alone therapy.

By combining systemic oestrogen therapy (transdermal, or patch oestrogen) with the Mirena Coil, women can achieve the benefits of oestrogen on other menopausal symptoms while minimizing the risk of endometrial hyperplasia (abnormal thickening of the uterine lining).

It’s important to note that the use of the Mirena Coil as part of HRT should be discussed with a healthcare provider, as individual circumstances and medical history can influence its suitability and appropriateness as a treatment option.

At Menopause Health Matters we have our very own purpose built medical suite where Mirena Coils can be fitted by our experienced doctors.

The terms “body identical” and “bio-identical” are often used interchangeably, but they have very different meanings. Body identical HRT refers to hormone medications that contain hormones that are molecularly identical to the hormones naturally produced by the body. These hormones, such as oestrogen and progesterone, are synthesized in a lab but have the same chemical structure as endogenous hormones.

On the other hand, the term “bio-identical” is sometimes used more broadly to refer to compounded hormone preparations that are custom-made by a compounding pharmacy based on an individual’s specific hormone needs. These compounded bio-identical hormones are tailored to each person and can include a combination of hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. At the moment bio-identical HRT is not regulated in the UK and is not approved by the NHS or menopausal societies.

Several pharmaceutical companies produce body identical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products. Some well-known brands of body identical HRT include Evorel and Estradot transdermal oestradiol patches, Oestrogel, Sandrena Gel , Lenzetto Spray and Utrogestan for oral micronized progesterone. It’s important to consult with a healthcare menopause specialist to determine the most appropriate HRT brand and form of administration based on individual needs, medical history, and preferences.

The duration of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can vary for each individual. It depends on factors such as the purpose of HRT, individual health considerations, and individualized treatment plans. It is recommended to regularly reassess the need for continued treatment with a healthcare provider. For women using HRT for specific medical conditions, the duration may be longer, and the treatment plan should be discussed and monitored closely with a healthcare provider.

We can use hormonal blood tests a few months after starting HRT to determine if the dose and type of HRT is suitable for you. Sometimes you may need your dose adjusting from time to time to achieve symptom relief or you may find changing your type of HRT eg, from patches to gel, may help you to absorb better. Finding the right type and dose of HRT can take time and everyone’s body is different. Adding testosterone to your HRT regime can also help to alleviate many symptoms and again a blood test can help to determine when to consider this and what dose is right for you.

Low testosterone levels in females can manifest in various symptoms, including reduced libido, decreased sexual satisfaction, fatigue, decreased energy levels, depressed mood, irritability, difficulty concentrating, brain fog and decreased muscle strength. Other potential signs of low testosterone may include hair loss, dry skin, weight gain, and reduced bone density. However, it’s important to note that these symptoms can have various causes, and a healthcare provider should evaluate and diagnose low testosterone through appropriate testing.

Testosterone plays an essential role in women’s health. It contributes to overall wellbeing by influencing mood, energy levels, and sexual function. Testosterone also helps maintain bone density and muscle mass, promotes the growth and strength of hair, and supports cognitive function. In women, testosterone is produced primarily in the ovaries and adrenal glands. While testosterone levels are much lower in women compared to men, an imbalance or deficiency in testosterone can lead to symptoms such as reduced libido, fatigue, brain fog, mood changes, decreased muscle strength and joint pain.

Yes, testosterone can be prescribed to women. Testosterone therapy in women is typically used to address specific medical conditions, such as certain types of hormonal deficiencies or disorders. The decision to prescribe testosterone to women is based on a thorough evaluation of individual health, symptoms, and hormone levels. Testosterone therapy should be supervised and managed by a healthcare provider or menopause specialist experienced in hormone therapy to ensure safe and effective treatment. At Menopause Health Matters we prescribe Androfeme which is testosterone in the form of a cream and has been specifically formulated for women.

Androfeme is currently unlicensed in the UK but can be prescribed at specialist private menopause clinics such as Menopause Health Matters as it has proven benefits in numerous clinical trials. It has been specially formulated and scientifically proven to be safe and effective for women.