Menopause treatment
Personalised support from a GP who has additional training in the menopause, with an individual care plan.
Get a personalised menopause plan from the comfort of your home
We understand that life gets busy and your health isn’t always top of the list. That’s why we’ve created a menopause plan that fits around you.
Whether you're experiencing the perimenopause or menopause, our plans are designed to support you. Our GPs have additional training and can support you with a range of symptoms, from mood changes and poor sleep to hot flushes and irregular periods.
Speak to a GP with additional menopause training from the comfort of your home, by phone or video, or face to face in one of our centres, and get personalised advice and treatment. You’ll also have access to our Anytime HealthLine for support whenever you need it.
The plan is available for a one off cost of £299. Plus, 5% of every menopause plan sold is donated to Wellbeing of Women to help fund vital women’s health research.
To book or find out more, call us on 0370 218 7532^
What’s included in our Menopause Treatment Plan?
The menopause is different for everyone, so we’ll help you get what you need.
Pre-appointment questionnaire
Before your appointment, we’ll ask you to fill in a questionnaire and symptom checker so we can start to personalise your care.
45-minute appointment
You’ll spend 45 minutes with a GP who has additional training in the menopause, either face to face or over phone or video.
Personalised care plan
After your appointment, you’ll receive a care plan that’s based around your personal needs.
Prescribing medications
You and your doctor may decide on medication, including HRT treatment (hormone replacement therapy). If so, they'll issue a prescription† and talk you through it during your consultation.
Onward referrals
You may also benefit from an appointment with another specialist, like a physio or counsellor. In this case, your doctor will discuss your options and refer you. ††
Follow-up appointment
You can book a 30-minute appointment up to a year after your initial appointment. You’ll need to call us to book this so we can try and get you to see the same GP. Call us to book.
Access to Anytime HealthLine
For a year after your first appointment, you’ll have 24/7 support from our Bupa nurses through Anytime HealthLine.
Additional tests
Your doctor may recommend additional blood tests for an extra cost for a more comprehensive view of your health. These tests are available both remotely and in-person. Your doctor will discuss these with you during your appointment.
What people are saying about the Menopause Plan
“It was quick, easy, with no travel required. The technology worked very well without any hitches. The Doctor I spoke to was excellent, her knowledge was second to none, and most importantly, she had a warm, kind and empathetic manner”.
May 2024
“The consultation was thorough. It's been just over a week since I started my new prescription and the results are amazing - I am sleeping better, have more energy and a better focus than I've had in ages”!
April 2024
“The Dr was very welcoming, friendly and easy to talk to. Had a vast knowledge and made you feel comfortable about questions you had - was very concise and informative. Very much enjoyed the appointment and was put at ease”.
January 2024
Expert advice on menopause
Dr Alpa Patel explains the symptoms of menopause, discusses its impact on daily life, and shares practical guidance on managing symptoms and finding the right support.
Transcript
How long does menopause usually last?
On average symptoms last for four to eight years
after the last period,
but one in 10 may experience them for up to 12 years.
What are the common symptoms of menopause?
In the menopause periods would've stopped altogether.
This may be accompanied
by worsening in the symptoms experienced,
like the night sweats and hot flushes.
Vaginal dryness and bladder symptoms may also deteriorate.
How do I know if I’m perimenopausal?
There are over 40 possible symptoms of the perimenopause
around three in four women experience hot
flashes and night sweats.
Mood changes such as irritability
or anxiety may also appear sleep disturbances,
vaginal dryness
or discomfort during intercourse, bore concentration,
brain fog, worsening migraines,
and irregular periods are also common
during the perimenopause.
Why do hormonal changes cause menapause symptoms to occur?
The hormones, oestrogen
and progesterone play a protective role in multiple systems,
and their decline leads to emergence
of symptoms affecting the different organs.
For example, brain fog, memory loss, heart palpitations,
digestive issues, and hot flushes.
The hormonal imbalance between oestrogen,
progesterone may affect other hormones.
Also, everyone experiences menopause differently,
and it is important to keep a diary of your symptoms
to discuss with a gp.
How does perimenopause affect the menstrual cycle before periods eventually stop?
During perimenopause,
menstrual cycles often become irregular
periods may be shorter or longer, heavier, or lighter,
and sometimes skipped altogether.
These changes occur
because fluctuating hormone levels affect ovulation
and the uterine lining.
It can be quite frustrating
for women when cycles become irregular
or lead to significant anaemia in those
in which it becomes heavier.
It is important to your GP if your periods feel unmanageable
or you are experiencing bleeding with clots
or frequent leaking or flooding.
What is the difference between perimenopause and menopause?
Perimenopause is a transitional phase
leading up to the menopause.
When hormone levels begin to fluctuate
and menstrual cycles become irregular,
it can feel like a bit of a hormonal rollercoaster.
You may feel like your old self one month
and then be overwhelmed with hot flushes,
exhaustion, and anxiety.
The next menopause, on the other hand, is confirmed
after 12 months without a period and is
therefore diagnosed retrospectively.
Perimenopause can begin several years
before the menopause even occurs anywhere from 12 months
to four years on average,
but some may start several years ahead of the last period.
Why do some women gain weight during perimenopause or menopause?
Weight gain during this stage can
occur for several reasons.
Lower oestrogen levels can alter fat distribution,
often increasing fat around the stomach.
Ageing naturally slows the metabolic rate,
making weight gain more likely.
There is also a gradual loss of lean muscle mass
around 1% per year from our thirties,
meaning the body burns fewer calories.
Lifestyle factors, including sleep disturbances
and stress can lead to overeating
or reduced physical activity, contributing further
to weight gain.
How can you navigate changes in libido or sexual health?
During the menopause
and perimenopause, navigating changes in libido
or sexual health begins with open communication.
Talking honestly
with a partner can reduce misunderstandings.
Vaginal moisturisers
or lubricants may ease dryness and discomfort.
It can also help to stay intimate in other ways as
physical closeness supports emotional connection.
Medical advice may be useful as hormone therapy
or other treatments can help if symptoms are severe.
This can be particularly important for women with a history
of birth trauma or previous genital or pelvic surgery.
How important is diet during menopause?
Diet plays a key role in managing symptoms
and supporting long-term health.
Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone strength
and can be found in foods such as milk, yoghourt,
leafy greens, and fortified products.
Protein helps maintain muscle mass.
Healthy fats, including omega threes found in fish.
Nuts and seeds support heart health.
It is also helpful to limit processed foods
and sugar as these can affect weight and energy levels.
Phytoestrogens found in soy, flax seed
and chickpeas may help with milder symptoms.
What lifestyle changes can women make to help with symptoms of menopause?
Women can make several lifestyle changes
to help manage menopausal symptoms.
Staying active with regular exercise supports mood,
sleep, and bone health.
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables,
whole grains, and lean protein is beneficial.
Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga,
meditation, or deep breathing can help.
Limiting alcohol and caffeine is important
as both can worsen hot flushes and sleep problems.
Stopping smoking can reduce symptom severity
and wider health risks.
Staying hydrated also helps with bloating and skin dryness.
Why do different women experience different symptoms, and at different severities?
Every woman's experience of a menopause is unique.
Symptoms can vary due to genetics.
Family history also plays a role.
Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, smoking,
and stress also make a difference.
Body shape can influence symptoms
because body fat can continue
to produce some oestrogen after the menopause.
Underlying health conditions such as thyroid issues
or autoimmune issues affecting the joints
may also contribute.
Stress levels. Mental health support systems
and neurodiversity, diagnosed
or undiagnosed can significantly influence
how symptoms are experienced.
What triggers perimenopause and how early can it begin?
Perimenopause is triggered
by a gradual decline in ovarian hormone production,
particularly oestrogen.
It can begin as early as the late thirties or early forties.
Although the average onset is around the mid forties,
there is not always a clear cause for those
who enter the menopause early, which is defined
as period stopping before the age of 45 years.
However, we do know early menopause can run in families.
Certain lifestyle factors like smoking can be a trigger.
People with autoimmune conditions like type one diabetes,
rheumatoid arthritis can experience early onset,
as can those with epilepsy.
It can also be a result of surgery involving removal
of the ovaries or having chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Is exercise important during perimenopause and menopause?
During the perimenopause
and menopause exercise is very important.
Loss of oestrogen increases bone thinning,
so weight bearing exercises such as walking, dancing,
or using lightweights help keep bone strong
In the menopause, our risk
of heart problems increases gradually,
and cardiovascular exercise improves heart
health as well as mood.
During the menopause, the rate of muscle loss increases
and as a consequence reduces our resting metabolic rate.
Strength training maintains muscle mass
and supports metabolism.
The risk of falls and fractures increases as we age.
Flexibility and balance exercises such as yoga
or Pilates can help reduce stiffness and help prevent falls.
Are there natural or complementary therapies that can help with symptoms?
During the menopause
and perimenopause, some women choose to explore natural
or complimentary therapies.
Although evidence for these is limited and their safety
and effectiveness can be difficult to determine.
It is important to check with a doctor
before trying them, especially if
you're taking other medicines.
Many products are not regulated in the UK
and may cause side effects or unpleasant reactions,
although there are no definitive answers on what works best.
Some women find herbal remedies such as black cohos,
red clover, or evening primrose oil helpful.
Acupuncture may support hot flushes
and mood mind Body therapies, including yoga, meditation,
and breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
It is essential to remember
that natural does not always mean safe,
so medical guidance is always recommended.
What are some lesser-known symptoms that people may not realise are related to menopause?
There are several symptoms
that people may not immediately associate with menopause
joint and muscle aches can occur due
to declining oestrogen levels, affecting connective tissue,
skin, and hair changes including dryness,
thinning hair, and bristle.
Nails are also common cognitive changes, often referred to
as brain fog may include difficulty concentrating
and memory lapses.
Some people experience heart palpitations caused
by hormonal fluctuations, as well as digestive changes such
as bloating, altered bowel habits.
Migraines may become more frequent, particularly those
with a previous history of migraines.
Women with epilepsy may notice an increase
in seizure frequency.
People with neurodiversity, especially those with autism
or A DHD, may find their symptoms become destabilised.
They may experience new challenges
or feel that existing ones have intensified,
including increased sensory sensitivities
and cognitive changes during this transition.
How long does it take for HRT to start working?
When you start taking HRT,
most women notice improvement within a few weeks.
Although it can take up to three months
to feel the full benefits.
A GP will review your treatment at agreed intervals
and may adjust the dose or formulation if symptoms persist.
Are there non-hormonal medication options for menopause symptom relief?
There are non-hormonal options when it comes
to menopause relief.
Certain antidepressants can help reduce hot flushes.
Medications such as gabapentin
or clonidine may help with night sweats,
vaginal moisturisers and lubricants can help with dryness.
It is important to discuss these options with the doctor
to find the most appropriate approach.
How can women decide which treatment plan is right for them?
When considering your treatment plan,
your GP will discuss your symptoms, health
and family history and preferences with available HRT,
and together you can make a shared decision on which
treatment you would like to try.
We may not get it right straight away,
but ensure you have a follow-up, arrange
to discuss any adjustments that you need to consider
to individualise and tailor your HRT to your specific needs.
What would be your message to someone struggling with menopausal symptoms?
When you are going through the perimenopause
or the menopause, it's important
to remember you're not alone and help is available.
Menopause is a natural stage,
but you don't have to suffer in silence.
Talk to your GP and don't wait until it feels really bad.
Explore treatment options and make small lifestyle changes.
Support groups at work and amongst friends
and good resources can make a big difference.
How can women start the conversation around menopause with their GP?
When approaching your GP about the menopause,
a useful first step is to see a GP
with an interest in menopause.
Being open about symptoms
and how they affect daily life is important.
Bringing a friend or partner can be helpful
and keeping a symptom diary is invaluable,
especially when tracking changes in sleep, mood and periods.
Asking questions about HRT alternatives
and lifestyle changes can help guide discussions.
Menopause is a normal life stage
and GPS are there to support women through it.
Who is a suitable candidate for HRT and who isn’t?
Most healthy women are eligible for HRT,
ideally within 10 years of the menopause,
although it can still be started later if appropriate.
However, some women cannot have HRT.
This includes women with a history of breast cancer,
current breast cancer, women
with undiagnosed vaginal bleeding,
or those with uncontrolled high blood pressure
and those with untreated endometrial hyperplasia.
A menopause trained GP can advise on non-hormonal
treatments, so it is always worth seeking expert guidance.
How can women manage sleep disturbances or lack of sleep during menopause?
During the menopause,
sleep disturbances can often be helped
through good sleep hygiene.
Keeping a regular sleep routine by going to bed
and waking at the same time is important.
Creating a calm environment with a cool, dark
and quiet bedroom aids rest.
Avoiding screens before bed can help.
As blue light can affect sleep,
reading may be a better alternative.
Limiting caffeine and alcohol is useful,
particularly in the evening.
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing,
gentle stretching before bed can also make a difference.
What simple adjustments can employers make to support someone going through menopause?
There are several straightforward adjustments employers
can make to support women during the menopause.
Flexible working can help whether
through remote work or adjusted hours.
Temperature controls, such as access to fans
or cooler spaces can make a big difference.
Encouraging comfortable,
breathable clothing rather than bulky layers can help women
manage hot flushes.
Providing private spaces for breaks
or managing symptoms is also beneficial.
Most importantly, open conversations matter.
Training managers to talk confidently
and sensitively about menopause.
Creates a supportive environment
and helps reduce the stigma.
What is HRT, and how does it work?
Hormone replacement therapy or HRT replaces the hormones.
The body no longer produces
after menopause, mainly oestrogen.
And for those with a uterus, progesterone,
it comes in several forms, including tablets, patches, gels,
sprays, and vaginal oestrogen, delivered as creams,
pessaries, or rings.
HRT helps relieve symptoms such as hot flushes,
night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness.
By restoring hormonal balance,
some women may also be prescribed testosterone.
HRT can also have long-term benefits for bone health,
heart health, and brain health.
What role can blood tests or hormones play in diagnosis and treatment decisions?
In the menopause, blood tests have limited
role in menopause care.
Nice guidelines recommend
that they are not usually needed for diagnosis.
If a woman is over 45
and experiencing symptoms,
blood tests may be used if a woman is younger
or if the diagnosis is unclear.
For example, in suspected premature ovarian insufficiency
where menopause symptoms have started under the age of 40,
hormone levels can guide treatment in some situations,
but symptoms matter most
because hormone levels can vary widely between individuals
and fluctuate significantly during the perimenopause.
Blood tests are used as a baseline when starting
testosterone therapy and for ongoing monitoring.
How does menopause affect people in the workplace?
Women now make up 47% of the UK workforce,
and around three and a half million women over the age
of 50 are in employment.
So the impact of menopause in the workplace is significant.
Research shows that one in four women consider leaving work
due to menopause symptoms, and 10% of women do leave
because of a lack of support.
One in five women say they have been forced
to take time off work,
and 63% of women have reported
that their symptoms have
negatively affected their performance.
Symptoms like hot flushes, fatigue, sleep problems
and mood changes can make work incredibly challenging.
Many women feel embarrassed
or fear stigma, which can reduce confidence,
impact productivity,
and in some cases lead to women leaving their job.
What myths or misconceptions exist about HRT?
There are several common myths about HRT.
One myth is that HRT always causes cancer.
The fact is that for most women,
the benefits outweigh the risks
and the increased risk of breast cancer is small
and depends on the type and duration of your HRT treatment.
Another myth is that HRT is only for severe symptoms.
In reality, it can also help with mild symptoms
and can protect bone health.
A further misconception is that HRT cannot be taken
after the age of 60,
but it can be considered late in life
with careful monitoring.
Finally, some belief that HRT means having periods
for longer in truth treatment is tailored to the individual
and depends on whether they are in perimenopause
or menopause, or options include both monthly bleed
and bleed free regimes.
How is testosterone sometimes used to help manage menopause symptoms?
Women naturally produce testosterone,
and it plays an important role in libido, energy,
muscle mass, bone density, and cognitive function.
Many women with low testosterone may not experience symptoms
at all, and blood levels do not always reflect
how someone feels.
But these levels can help guide safe replacements.
Testosterone may help women experiencing low libido
or reduced sexual satisfaction after menopause.
Alongside broader bio-psychosocial support,
it is usually prescribed alongside HRT
and monitored carefully.
Women who have had their ovaries removed
or who have experienced premature
or early menopause may have a more pronounced
drop in testosterone.
Testosterone is usually given as a gel applied to the skin.
Most preparations in the UK are licenced for men
and are used off licence in smaller doses for women.
Andro Fem, a testosterone cream,
which is formulated specifically for women,
was previously licenced only in Australia,
but has now been approved
by the UK's Medical Regulation Agency.
It will become available in a UK approved version in 2026.
What are the risks of osteoporosis during and after menopause, and how can women reduce them?
During the menopause,
lower oestrogen levels reduce bone density,
making bones weaker,
and increasing the risk
of fractures from low impact injuries.
Women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass within five
to seven years after menopause.
The most rapid bone loss can begin around a year
before the final period
and continue for up to three years after.
Women can reduce their risk by eating foods rich in calcium
and vitamin D, doing weight-bearing
and strength exercises, avoiding alcohol and smoking.
Regular bone health checks may be needed.
Medication or further investigations may also be recommended
for women at higher risk, including those
with relevant genetic factors,
those taking certain medications
or with underlying health conditions.
What support is out there for women going through menopause?
Menopause can feel overwhelming,
but there is plenty of support available
to help you manage your symptoms and feel your best support.
Includes resources from the Women's Health Concern Group,
which offers a menopause wellness hub
with valuable information on self-help,
nutrition and mental health.
Speaking to a doctor trained in menopause care can also make
a significant difference.
The BPA menopause plan includes an initial 45 minute
appointment with a GP trained in menopause care
with a 30 minute review appointment
to make any further adjustments to your treatment plan.
You will receive a personalised care plan tailored
to your symptoms and needs
and private prescriptions can be provided if needed.
You also have access to BPAs 24 7 anytime.
Healthline, where nurses trained in menopause can offer
guidance if needed.
There can be onward referrals to physiotherapy, gynaecology
or counselling appointments can be remote or face-to-face,
and a continued care plan is available
for repeat prescriptions and annual reviews.
Who has access to the Bupa menapause plan?
The Boop perimenopause plan is available
to any individual experiencing perimenopause
or menopause symptoms like hot flashes, poor sleep,
mood, or period changes.
It is available to anyone seeking information
and support with a GP trained in menopause care.
Who are you?
My name is Dr.
Alpa Patel, and I'm a remote lead physician for Bupa.
I have been working at Bupa since 2022.
I've actually been a GP for 20 years now.
I have a family with three children, a cat and a dog,
and my current favourite hobby is going to the gym
and lifting ridiculous amounts of weight in order
to advocate for my future health.
What causes hormonal changes during menopause?
Hormonal changes during perimenopause
and menopause are primarily caused
by a decline in ovarian function.
After our mid thirties,
the ovaries gradually produce less
oestrogen and progesterone.
The body experiences fluctuations in hormone levels leading
to symptoms such as hot flushes, mood changes,
and irregular periods amongst many others.
How does menopause impact self-esteem or self-identity?
Menopause can affect how some women see themselves.
They may feel older, less confident,
or worry about changes in appearance or energy levels.
Some may grieve the end of fertility, particularly those
who experience menopause earlier than expected.
Support and reassurance can help women recognise this
as a natural life stage rather than a loss of identity.
How can menopause affect relationships?
Menopause can affect relationships in many ways.
Symptoms such as low libido, mood swings,
and fatigue can place strain on relationships.
Misunderstandings can occur if partners are not aware of
what is happening or how symptoms affect daily life.
Open communication
and empathy are essential for maintaining closeness
and understanding during this time.
What positive aspects can menopause bring to women’s lives?
For many women, menopause brings new freedoms.
They no longer need to worry about periods,
contraception or pregnancy.
They may feel liberated from menstrual symptoms such
as PMS or heavy bleeding.
This stage of life can bring a sense of new beginnings,
renewed confidence,
and an opportunity to focus on health and wellbeing.
Many women feel empowered after navigating this transition.
What is menopause and what age does it normally occur?
Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end
of a women's reproductive years.
When oestrogen levels decline,
it is diagnosed retrospectively.
When women experience 12 consecutive months
without a menstrual period.
It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.
With the average age in the UK being around 51,
though I refer to women, we recognise that members
of the trans, intersex,
and non-binary communities will experience the menopause
too.
How can employers support access to healthcare for menopause?
Employers can support access to menopause healthcare
by offering health plans such as the Bupa Menopause Plan.
This includes a 45 minute GP consultation
with menopause trained doctors follow-up appointments,
personalised care plans, and prescriptions where needed.
It can also include referrals to counselling, physiotherapy,
or specialist care.
Employers can create information hubs
and signpost staff to NHS or private menopause services.
Workplace support groups.
Whether employee
or manager led can also be extremely helpful.
How can women advocate for themselves when seeking support?
During the menopause, advocating for oneself begins
with tracking symptoms.
Keeping a diary helps when speaking with the gp.
Ask questions about HRT.
Lifestyle changes and alternatives ensures women
understand their options.
Exploring workplace policies
and health plans such
as bupa's menopause plan can also help.
Above all, speaking up is important.
Menopause is a normal life stage
and no one should suffer in silence
if you don't receive the care or support you need initially.
You should feel confident enough asking
to see a different gp.
How can partners, families or friends support someone going through menopause?
During the menopause,
support from loved ones can make a huge difference.
Learning about menopause helps reduce misunderstandings
and attending appointments together can increase
awareness and empathy.
Listening without judgement
and being patient is important,
especially when mood swings occur.
Practical help, such as sharing household tasks
or supporting appointment attendance can ease the pressure.
Encouraging healthy habits like regular exercise, relaxation
and self-care is also valuable.
It helps to remind women that they are appreciated
as many may feel low
or less confident during this transition.
What is the Bupa menapause plan and what does it include?
The BPA Menopause Plan includes a 45 minute initial
appointment with a GP trained in menopause care.
During this appointment, the GP will explore your symptoms,
your health, your family history,
and discuss your treatment options
alongside lifestyle advice.
Together you will create a personalised menopause care plan.
A follow-up appointment is arranged
after three months to assess your symptoms
and treatments So far
and further recommendations can be discussed.
You also have access
to our Anytime Healthline nurses 24 hours a
day, seven days a week.
You may wish to continue your menopause care
with your BPA GP
and consider the BPA Menopause Continued Care Plan
for ongoing support with appointments and prescriptions.
Menopause symptoms
Signs of the menopause or perimenopause are different for everyone. That’s why it’s important to speak to a GP who has additional training in the menopause for care that’s tailored to you.
Common signs and symptoms
- Hot flushes
- Low mood and energy levels
- Brain fog
- Night sweats or insomnia
- Vaginal dryness
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
- Thinning hair
- Low sex drive
- Joint pain
- Itchy skin
Menopause Continued Care Plan
An extra 12 months of menopause support, available when purchasing our Menopause Plan. Just £250, no insurance needed.
Menopause symptoms don't always end after 12 months, so why should your support plan? Get an additional 12 months support as often as you need it, with our Menopause Continued Care Plan. It's our annual care package to make sure you're managing your symptoms well.
Talk to us about your Menopause Plan on
0345 850 8399^
Here’s what’s included in the continued care plan
- 30-min appointment with a GP who has additional training in the menopause
- Two 15-min follow-up appointments that you can book when you need them within 12 months of the annual review
- A repeat prescription within the 12 months
- An onward referral, if you need it
- 12 months' access to our nurse-led Anytime HealthLine
Menopause help and advice from Bupa's experts
The menopause can come with physical and psychological symptoms, so here are some examples we can help with. You can also find more on our Women's Health Hub.
How to cope with hot flushes
Hot flushes can range from mild to almost unbearable, but there are ways to make them more manageable. Here are our tips.
Early or premature menopause
If you show symptoms aged 40-45, that’s early menopause. And before that, it’s premature menopause. Here’s what happens.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the time between your periods first becoming irregular and when you haven’t had one for a full year.
Night sweats and disturbed sleep
Menopause can cause issues sleeping, like waking up drenched in sweat, difficulty falling asleep, and waking frequently in the night.
Interested in a Menopause Plan or other women's health services for your employees?
We can help support your employees’ health and reduce absence in the workplace. Research shows that 59% of women have difficulties at work during the menopause†††. With a Menopause Plan they can access health services when they need it most.
Call us on 0345 600 3476^ or email us.
No. Anyone who’d like to talk to one of our specially trained doctors can book our Menopause Plan. It might be that you’re concerned about approaching the menopause, or unsure if your symptoms are related to the menopause. Remember you get a full year of access to our 24/7 Anytime HealthLine for any menopause-related questions, too.
Yes. Please just ask when you book.
No, we don’t currently offer a home menopause test kit. However, we do offer a home self blood testing service for some diagnostic tests. The GP will discuss the options available to you if this is something you require.
Most of the people we see don’t need a blood test in order for us to diagnose the menopause. However, if you’re under 45 and have menopause symptoms, the doctor may recommend a blood test. This will be at an extra cost, which the doctor will discuss with you. The test will measure the level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in your blood, which increases as you approach the menopause. Levels of the FSH hormone can vary a lot in the years leading up to the menopause, so a blood test may not be reliable. For those over 45 years as long as you are healthy, the guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) is that the diagnosis of perimenopause or menopause should be based on menopause symptoms alone, and should not depend on laboratory tests.
If you got a prescription the first time you saw the doctor as part of your Menopause Plan, you can get a repeat prescription (if appropriate) at your second appointment. At other times, you’ll need to book and pay for a separate appointment outside of the Menopause Plan. You can ask to see the same doctor you saw before. You can choose either a 15-minute or a 30-minute appointment.
You don’t need to have the second appointment if you don’t want to. However, our Menopause Plan is a complete package at a flat cost. If you choose not to book your follow-up appointment, we can’t make any refund to you.
Your Bupa health insurance doesn't cover this service, so it will be an extra cost. For other insurers, please check with your provider.
After a discussion with the GP, it may be decided that HRT is appropriate for you. However, we can't guarantee it will be prescribed. This could because further investigations, a referral to a specialist or communication with your own GP is needed first. Our GPs will only prescribe if it is safe to do so.
What next?
Anyone can book our Menopause Plan and there’s no need to go through your GP first.
Book online
If you already know what you want, you can use our handy online tool to get an appointment booked in.
Book now
^ We may record or monitor our phone calls. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, Saturday 8am to 4pm.
† The cost of the medication is not included in the plan and will need to be paid directly to the pharmacy you choose to get your medication from. Costs of medication vary.
†† Our GPs cannot refer into NHS services, only private services for self pay or insured customers. They can write to your NHS GP with their recommendations, however the NHS GP are under no obligation to action them.
††† Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD)
https://www.cipd.co.uk/about/media/press/menopause-at-work
‡ For more information and to sign up for a free Egress Switch account, go to https://switch.egress.com/ui/learn. You will not be charged for sending secure emails to a Bupa email address using the Switch service.
Terms and conditions for self-pay GP services (PDF, 0.2MB)
Bupa Anytime HealthLine and Bupa private GP services are provided by Bupa Occupational Health Limited. Registered in England and Wales with registration number 631336. Registered office: 1 Angel Court, London EC2R 7HJ
Bupa private GP services are provided by Bupa Occupational Health Limited. Registered in England and Wales with registration number 631336. Registered office: 1 Angel Court, London EC2R 7HJ
Bupa GP appointments are only available to persons aged 18 years and older.
