Menopause patient information

Find out what to expect when you come to hospital for your appointment.

Before your appointment

Please expect to receive your appointment within 13 weeks of referral. You are welcome to bring a relative, close friend or carer with you to your appointment. You are also welcome to ask for a chaperone and we will endeavour to provide one for you. 

There is no specific preparation required for your appointment, although keeping a diary of your symptoms is often beneficial. Please remember to check your appointment letter for anything specific you have been asked to take with you. In addition, please bring the following:

• Your full address and telephone number(s)
• Your appointment card and appointment letter
• Your GP’s name and address
• Money to pay for any prescriptions, or an exemption card
• A list of questions you may want to ask your consultant

During your appointment

Typically, you can expect to wait 30 minutes for your appointment to begin. Once the consultation has begun, it can take anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes.

At your initial consultation a detailed history is taken and any necessary investigations are ordered. An examination may need to be performed. Tests and investigations might include hormone tests and bone densitometry (bone scan to assess density).

After your appointment

You may be asked to keep a symptom diary. Treatments may be hormonal or complementary and usually begin at the next consultation. Follow-up appointments will be arranged by the clinic secretary if appropriate.