Menopause

This detailed course on Menopause is designed to provide healthcare professionals with a solid understanding of menopause, from the physiological changes to the management of symptoms. The course is structured into five comprehensive units, ensuring a well-rounded grasp of menopause and related therapies.

Unit 1: Menopause Overview This unit introduces the physiological changes associated with menopause, including the cessation of ovarian function and the transition from perimenopause to post-menopause. Common symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, and urogenital atrophy are discussed. Participants will also learn about early and premature menopause, as well as long-term health implications like osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Unit 2: Assessment and Diagnosis of Menopause In this unit, the focus shifts to the clinical diagnosis of menopause. It outlines how to assess women presenting with perimenopausal symptoms and the importance of well-woman screenings, including cardiovascular checks and lifestyle assessments. While hormone levels are generally not required for diagnosis, this unit explains when to consider investigations, such as ruling out other pathologies or contraindications for menopause hormone therapy (MHT).

Unit 3: Management of Menopause This unit explores four key management options for menopause: lifestyle modifications, natural therapies, non-hormonal pharmaceuticals, and menopause hormone therapy (MHT). Participants will gain insights into the benefits and limitations of natural and complementary therapies like phytoestrogens and black cohosh, as well as more established non-hormonal pharmaceutical treatments, such as SSRIs and SNRIs for hot flushes​.

Unit 4: Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT) Focusing on the most effective treatment for menopause symptoms, this unit covers the different forms of MHT, including the use of estrogen and progestogen, and alternatives like tibolone. The unit provides guidance on cyclical versus continuous therapy, the benefits of transdermal versus oral administration, and how to tailor MHT based on patient comorbidities. Special attention is given to minimising risks, particularly for women with cardiovascular risk factors or those requiring contraception​.

Unit 5: Risks of Menopause Hormone Therapy The final unit delves into the risks associated with MHT, particularly focusing on findings from the Women’s Health Initiative study. It covers the potential risks for cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, and thromboembolism, while also putting these risks into context for clinical decision-making. The unit emphasises individualised care, with MHT recommended for women under 60 within 10 years of menopause onset, and provides strategies for managing MHT risks and adjusting treatment plans.

By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the skills to diagnose, assess, and manage menopause effectively, providing tailored care for their patients.