Will the Cabinet Minister provide an update on what support is being provided to women who are experiencing early menopause?
It is essential that services are provided in line with the latest evidence-based guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellent to identify the symptoms of menopause and manage care appropriately, regardless of age. This includes providing individualised care when prescribing HRT. It is essential that appropriate care pathways are in place to ensure women have access to the clinical support that best meets their individual needs in the right place and at the right time.
Menopause is one of the eight priorities in the NHS Wales Women’s Health Plan, and work is underway to improve access and consistency in services. This includes further development of Women’s Health Hubs to improve
access to support and treatment closer to home. Additional funding is being provided to health boards to further strengthen and expand Women’s Health Hub services across Wales.
The Women’s Health Website also provides dedicated information on menopause and early menopause, including symptoms, treatment options and sources of further support, to empower women to have informed conversations with their clinicians.