Menopause is a time of transition, with menopausal symptoms often commencing 1–2 years prior to the last menstrual period, in the peri-menopausal period. These often-troublesome symptoms can last on average seven years for some, with 20% of women experiencing vasomotor symptoms - flushes and sweats for up to 15 years after the menopause transition [1].

In the UK, the average age of menopause is 51 years. Menopause can start earlier for some patients and the “normal” range for the development of menopausal symptoms can be between 45-55 years. All women, assigned female at birth, will transition through the menopause during their life-course, however, not all women will experience symptoms. For those experiencing symptoms, up to 25% have reported these as debilitating, as such, this can have great implications on their physical and mental well-being, with wider implications affecting their relationships, workplace, and overall quality of life.

The average life expectancy for women is approximately 81 years, and, as this increases, women may be menopausal for up to a third of their life [2]. Therefore, addressing and acknowledging the symptoms experienced by patients during this period is crucial to reduce the burden associated with this normal, physiological state and supporting women through this with HRT or alternatives, is an important aspect of health-care provision.