If you’re planning to visit your GP to discuss your menopausal symptoms and suitable management options, it’s important to be prepared. Is there anything in particular you need to know in advance or that your GP will ask you? Will you need an examination while you’re there or any specific tests afterwards?

In the Autumn 2019 issue of The Menopause Exchange newsletter, Dr Vikram Talaulikar, menopause specialist at the University College London Hospital, has some helpful advice, from making your first appointment through to what your GP may discuss, and even what to do if you’re not happy with the advice and support you’ve received.

“All women experience the menopause differently and have various expectations of how their GP can help them,” says Norma Goldman. “It’s important to know in advance what you want to say and discuss, based on your symptoms, medical and family history and personal preferences. Make sure your GP explains all of the different management options clearly so that you can make an informed choice.”

The Menopause Exchange, which was established in 1999, is completely independent and is not sponsored by any companies. It provides impartial, easily understood information to women and healthcare professionals. The Menopause Exchange quarterly newsletter contains articles written by top medical experts, such as gynaecologists, GPs, consultants, specialist menopause nurses, complementary practitioners, pharmacists, dietitians etc.

Articles in the Autumn 2019 issue of The Menopause Exchange quarterly newsletter include HRT and cancer, are you thinking clearly? and all about osteoporosis, as well as news and Ask the Experts Q&As.

The Menopause Exchange has a number of members who are happy to talk to journalists about their menopause experiences. The members are based in different parts of the UK, which may be of interest to regional publications as well as national ones. Many of the case studies are willing to provide a name and photograph, if required.

The Menopause Exchange quarterly newsletter is available via email for free. Sign up on our website, www.menopause-exchange.co.uk. Find us on Facebook and Twitter (@MenopauseExch).

For more information, call 020 8420 7245, e-mail norma@menopause-exchange.co.uk or write to The Menopause Exchange at PO Box 205, Bushey, Herts WD23 1ZS.

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NOTES FOR EDITORS
1. The Menopause Exchange was launched in June 1999.
2. Articles in previous issues of The Menopause Exchange newsletter include: The menopause at work; A man’s guide to the menopause; Libido and the menopause; Should all women be on non-oral HRT?; Non-hormonal prescribed treatments for menopausal sweats and flushes; Your gut bacteria balance; Bleeding patterns and the menopause.
3. The founder and director of The Menopause Exchange is Norma Goldman. Norma has a pharmacy degree and a Master’s degree in health promotion. She gives talks, seminars and workshops on the menopause to employees in the workplace including hospitals, women and women’s groups, healthcare professionals, GP practices, organisations, companies and at exhibitions. Her daughter, Victoria Goldman, the editor of the newsletter, is an experienced health journalist with a BSc. degree in Biomedical Science and a Master’s degree in Science Communication.
4. The aim of The Menopause Exchange is to raise the awareness of the menopause among women, healthcare professionals, complementary practitioners, line managers, health and safety officers and anyone else who is responsible in the workplace for the wellbeing of employees.
5. All press enquiries to Norma Goldman on 020 8420 7245.