Supporting Women’s Health on World Menopause Day
- James Davies
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Every year, World Menopause Day shines a light on the experiences of women going through perimenopause and menopause. It is a reminder that this stage of life affects every woman differently, but that with the right support, it can also be a time of strength, renewal, and improved wellbeing.
At Waterloo Court, we are proud to support women through this transition with GP-led medical care and holistic wellbeing partnerships. To mark the day, we are hosting a free open morning at Waterloo Court Health & Wellbeing Hub on Saturday 18 October, where you can meet our team and explore a range of menopause support options.
Our understanding of the perimenopause and menopause is an ever evolving picture. The impact of this significant period in a woman’s life has historically been underestimated.
I am passionate about supporting women through this time by providing them with the information needed to make informed choices about managing symptoms and maintaining optimal long-term health.
Dr Charlie Brough, GP and Clinical Lead at Peninsula Private Medical
Understanding Menopause
Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when her periods stop as a result of the reduction and loss of ovarian reproductive function. Perimenopause is the time before this when the ovarian function starts to change.
In the UK, with the average age of menopause being around fifty-one and life expectancy now over eighty, many women spend almost a third of their lives in a post-menopausal state. During this stage, many are managing careers, family, and caring responsibilities while also adapting to physical and emotional changes.
Common Symptoms
Every woman’s experience is different. Some have only mild symptoms, while others find the changes disruptive or exhausting. Common symptoms include:
Changes in periods such as lighter, heavier, or changes in bleeding frequency
Mood and mental health symptoms including anxiety, low mood, fatigue, tearfulness, poor concentration, or “brain fog”
Hot flushes and night sweats, sometimes with palpitations
Headaches and migraines that fluctuate with hormonal changes
Physical changes such as joint aches, dry eyes, dry hair, bloating, or weight gain
Intimate health issues including vaginal dryness, recurrent cystitis, or low libido
Sleep disturbance
Diagnosis is usually based on your symptoms rather than blood tests, although we may occasionally check hormone levels such as FSH, oestradiol, or testosterone.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), replaces the hormones that naturally decline. It is the most effective treatment for relieving symptoms and protecting long-term health.
Types of HRT include:
Transdermal patches, gels or spray
Tablets
Vaginal creams or pessaries for local symptoms
Specialist combination or testosterone preparations where appropriate
Your GP will discuss which option is safest and most suitable for you, taking into account your medical history, preferences, and lifestyle.
Benefits of HRT
When started at the right time, HRT can offer a range of health benefits beyond symptom relief:
Lower risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures
Reduced risk of heart disease when started within ten years of menopause
Possible protection against bowel cancer and joint conditions
Better sleep, improved mood, and enhanced quality of life
Non Hormonal Options
There are various options to managing symptoms that don’t include hormonal replacement.
These include:
Lifestyle changes eg. Diet and exercise
Medications including SSRIs, SNRIs and the newer options Neurokinin 3 antagonist
CBT
Acupuncture
Common Myths and Concerns
There are still many misconceptions about menopause and HRT. Here are some facts to help you make an informed choice.
“I am through the menopause now.”
Menopause is lifelong. Although symptoms may change, your body remains in a lower oestrogen state and can still benefit from support.
“I cannot take HRT because of migraines or blood clots.”
Transdermal forms such as patches or gels are much safer and often suitable even for women with these conditions.
“I worry about the risk of breast cancer.”
Modern, body identical HRT carries very little increase in breast cancer risk. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol intake, and being overweight have a much greater impact on risk.
“I have had breast cancer so I cannot use any form of HRT.”
For many women with a history of breast cancer, using HRT is contraindicated. However this does depend on the type of cancer that you had. We can liaise with you oncologist to ensure that we provide the best, safest advice for you.
Collaborative Menopause Care
Every woman’s journey through menopause is unique. At Waterloo Court, we believe in joined-up care that supports both body and mind. Our trusted wellbeing partners work closely including Peninsula Private Medical, The Menopause Wellness Centre, Nourish to Soar, Acupuncture , Counselling and Psychology support to provide holistic, personalised support. We can help you explore nutrition, fitness, counselling, and lifestyle approaches that complement your medical care.
World Menopause Day at Waterloo Court
Saturday 18 October | 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Waterloo Court Health & Wellbeing Hub, Uffculme
Join us for a free open morning dedicated to menopause awareness and support.
10:00 to 11:00 am – Drop-In Session
Meet the team, enjoy a cup of tea, and discover the GP-led and holistic options available at the Hub.
11:00 am – Short Talks
Dr Charlie Brough – Menopause support from a private GP
Sharon from The Menopause Wellness Centre – Expert advice and evidence-based care
Claire from Nourish to Soar – Nutrition and wellbeing during menopause
Plus insights from other health and wellbeing specialists at the Hub.
Free on-site parking
Free to attend
Everyone welcome
Menopause is a natural part of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to face it alone. Whether you’re just starting to notice changes, struggling with ongoing symptoms, or curious about your options, our team is here to help.