The menopause is a natural part of ageing in women, typically occurring between the ages of 45-55. During this time the oestrogen levels in the body begin to decline, periods stop, and women are unable to get pregnant naturally.

Every woman will go through the menopause, but the symptoms experienced will vary greatly. Some women will have little or no symptoms whereas others can be very debilitated by their symptoms and struggle to maintain normal daily activities. Symptoms can begin months or even years before your period eventually stops and last for around four years after your last period, although some women experience them for much longer.

Symptoms of the menopause include:

• Hot flushes
• Sweating, particularly at night
• Alterations to the menstrual cycle before cessation of periods
• Mood changes
• Irritability
• Lethargy
• Joint and muscle aches
• Sleep disturbance
• Problems with memory and concentration

Your GP can discuss all the treatment options available to you, along with the benefits and associated risks so you can make an informed decision that is right for you. In order to prescribe treatment for menopause, your GP will need to see you in person so they can check your weight and blood pressure.

If you are struggling to manage your menopause symptoms and they are beginning to have a real impact on your daily life, a GP can help you. Treatments are readily available and safe for the vast majority so do seek help if you are struggling. Please note, menopause medications (such as HRT) cannot be issued during an online consultation, only a face-to-face appointment.

You can use Mayfield Clinic alongside your existing NHS GP practice. We believe in joined-up care; we don’t believe that it is in your best interests to have different doctors independently trying to treat you. For this reason, once you’ve seen a Mayfield Clinic GP we aim (with your permission) to share your consultation notes back with your current NHS GP.

For example, if you can’t get an appointment at your local GP practice this week, you can book in with Mayfield Clinic’s GPs. With your consent, we’ll share the Mayfield Clinic consultation notes back with you and your NHS GP, so that when you next see your NHS GP they will have a full picture of your care history.

To access our GP services, you don’t need to be registered with us. You can book appointments directly from our website. We often have appointments available for the same day or next day within clinic opening hours and you can book directly with a GP.

If you are from overseas, you don’t need to be registered with the NHS or have an NHS number. Being seen at Mayfield Clinic won’t impact your eligibility to use the NHS in the future.