UK Menopause taskforce holds inaugural meeting

Ministers and senior clinicians from across all 4 nations have today held the inaugural meeting of the UK Menopause Taskforce.

Millions of women go through the menopause every year, with the majority experiencing symptoms that can be severe, such as low mood, anxiety, hot flushes and difficulty sleeping, and have a negative impact on everyday life.

The government says the taskforce will tackle issues surrounding the menopause including increasing access to treatment, and ending the taboos and stigmas that still surround conversations about the menopause, including in the workplace.

The inaugural meeting comes as the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) launched a consultation into the reclassification of a locally applied HRT product, Gina, meaning women in the UK could access a menopausal treatment over the counter at a pharmacy, without requiring a prescription.

This is the first time HRT has been considered for sale over the counter, marking important progress in ensuring women can more easily access menopause treatment.

Minister for Women’s Health and co-chair of the UK Menopause Taskforce Maria Caulfield, said:

“For too long women have gone unsupported and unheard when it comes to specific women’s health issues. This is especially true when it comes to the understanding of and treatment for the menopause.

“This must change. The UK Menopause Taskforce is another stride forward in delivering real change for women across the UK, breaking down taboos and ensuring better access to treatment and support.

“I look forward to working closely with my colleagues across all 4 nations as we drive forward the women’s health agenda to tackle the gender health gap ahead of the publication of our Women’s Health Strategy later this year.”

It was agreed the taskforce will meet every 2 months.