The addition of dedicated questions to NHS Health Checks about the menopause will benefit nearly 5 million women. Questions in the health checks will be developed over the coming months with health experts feeding in.
Health and social care secretary, Wes Streeting, said: ‘No one should have to grit their teeth and just get on with what can be debilitating symptoms or be told that it's simply part of life.
‘This government is overhauling women's healthcare and giving those experiencing menopause and perimenopause the visibility and support they have long been asking for.'
Dr Sue Mann, national clinical director in women's health for NHS England, said: ‘Far too often we still hear women say their concerns aren't listened to or that they aren't getting enough support for the debilitating symptoms that can come with the menopause, many of which can have a big impact on their lives and can be invisible to others.
‘We want to change that – no-one should have to put on a brave face or feel they are facing symptoms of menopause or perimenopause on their own. By tailoring NHS Health Checks to include questions around menopause, we hope more women will get the support they need to manage their symptoms – and this is testament to our ongoing commitment to improving treatment, care and quality of life for women.'
Professor Ranee Thakar, president at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said: ‘Everyone's experience is different, but menopause can seriously impact a woman's health, their enjoyment of life and their ability to work. Creating space for women to get information about menopause symptoms, support and treatments will break down barriers, reduce stigma, and help many women live more happily and healthily in middle age.
‘For this change to have maximum positive impact we'd like to see a real focus on ensuring women from diverse ethnic communities and socially deprived areas being supported to access Health Checks, and excellent menopause training for healthcare assistants providing Health Checks. Women's Health Hubs are the ideal place to make this new support accessible, personal and impactful.'
