For the first time ever, the NHS is taking a bold step to address a silent struggle affecting millions of women: menopause. But here’s where it gets groundbreaking—NHS health checks in England will now include questions about menopause, a move expected to benefit up to 5 million women. This change, set to roll out by 2026, aims to shed light on an issue that has long been brushed aside as 'just a part of life.'
Adults aged 40 to 74 without pre-existing long-term health conditions are eligible for these checks every five years. Traditionally, they’ve focused on identifying risks for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. And this is the part most people miss—by adding menopause-related questions, the NHS is acknowledging the profound physical and emotional toll it can take, from hot flushes and night sweats to depression and sleep disturbances. Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized, 'Women have been suffering in silence for far too long, navigating menopause with little to no support due to an outdated health system.'
The Department of Health and Social Care estimates this update could be a game-changer, offering women the visibility and care they’ve been demanding. But it’s not just about asking questions—it’s about providing solutions. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), hormone replacement therapy (HRT) should be the first-line treatment for menopause symptoms, yet many women feel unheard and unsupported. Here’s the controversial part: while experts applaud this move, they argue it’s not enough. Prof Ranee Thakar, president of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, warns that efforts must be more targeted, especially for women from diverse ethnic communities and deprived areas who face barriers to accessing care.
Kate Muir, author of Everything You Need to Know About the Menopause, highlights a stark disparity: only 23% of white menopausal women are on HRT, compared to just 5% of Black and 6% of Asian women. 'This could open doors,' she says, emphasizing the need for evidence-based information during GP appointments. Janet Lindsay, CEO of Wellbeing of Women, adds, 'Progress on menopause support cannot leave marginalized communities behind. Healthcare professionals must collaborate with grassroots organizations to ensure tailored care reaches those who need it most.'
While this initiative is a step in the right direction, it raises a thought-provoking question: Is the NHS doing enough to address the systemic inequalities in menopause care? Let’s spark a conversation—do you think this change will make a meaningful difference, or is there more work to be done? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
