The menopause consultation

BACKGROUND: The menopausal transition is a time of hormonal chaos. Many women will present to their general practitioner (GP) seeking help and advice. It is important to have an empathetic and structured approach to assessing women experiencing menopause symptoms as these consultations can be complex and multi-faceted. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this paper is to summarise key components of a menopause consultation. This includes assessment of the impact of menopausal hormonal changes, as well as of broader midlife health conditions and risks. DISCUSSION: GPs play an important part in the provision of solid, evidence-based information for women at this midlife transition point. Symptom management and support should be provided within the broader context of a psychosocial framework. Consideration needs to be given to the changes in future health risk that occur at the menopause transition, most notably in cardiovascular and bone health. Menopause consults are a great opportunity to strengthen the GP-patient relationship, to guide women on the right path for healthy ageing, and to provide good longitudinal primary care.