What is the Menopause course for GPs

This session explains the demographics, physiology, and consequences of the menopause and provides an insight into counselling women about the timing and effects of the menopause.

This session was reviewed by Khyati Bakhai and last updated in December 2020.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Describe the demographics, physiology and consequences of the menopause
• Diagnose perimenopause and menopause, and know which investigations are required
• Explain what factors contribute to the effects of the menopause
• Counsel women about the changes occurring at the perimenopause and the menopause
• Appreciate the importance of premature or early menopause

The menopause is the final menstrual period and is only known retrospectively one year after the event. It is the permanent cessation of the menstrual cycle due to loss of ovarian follicular activity.