The NICE guideline: Menopause – Diagnosis and Management published in 2015 was a significant turning point in both raising awareness of the importance of menopause and in providing direction in management. However, updating is timely and very much welcomed.
It is well recognised that menopause care should be individualised as is emphasised, and so it is essential that women are aware of all treatment options. Greater emphasis on the importance and effectiveness of CBT is well placed, along with clear balancing of benefits and risks of HRT.
Genitourinary symptoms of menopause continue to be very common and often under recognised and under treated. The emphasis on offering a range of effective treatments should help address the problem.
Need for further research in certain areas has been highlighted and it is very much hoped that investment can be prioritised in this important area of women’s health.
Myra Hunter, Professor of clinical health psychology at King’s College London adds: “Our research has shown that women learn skills that can be used in everyday life to improve their experience of menopause. I’m delighted that this approach is now recommended by NICE as an option for women with troublesome menopausal symptoms.”
The BMS continues to provide evidence-based, peer-reviewed education and resources for healthcare professionals, together with accurate, authoritative, trustworthy information and guidance for women via the Women’s Health Concern website.
The BMS urges its members and the broader clinical and public community to read the updated guidance as it is now open for public consultation until 5th January 2024.
Please find a link to the NICE press release here and access to the draft Guideline here.
About the British Menopause Society
The British Menopause Society (BMS) is the specialist authority for menopause and post reproductive health in the UK. Established in 1989, the BMS educates, informs and guides healthcare professionals, working in both primary and secondary care, on menopause and all aspects of post reproductive health.
For more information visit: www.thebms.org.uk or the patient arm of the BMS: www.womens-health-concern.org
