Menopause clinical priorities and organisational models

Up to one in four women experiences severe and debilitating symptoms associated with menopause. We are working with local health districts to establish menopause referral sites and hubs.

In most cases, primary care providers will support people with menopause symptoms. However, people with more severe and/or complex menopause may need specialised care.

We have developed three models for health services and clinicians to better manage care for people with severe and/or complex menopause in different service delivery settings.

Four clinical priority areas have also been identified to improve support for people experiencing these symptoms. These resources draw on the latest evidence and what is important for clinicians and patients.

Snapshot: the impact of severe and/or complex menopause

Among women younger than 55 years who are post-menopausal, a quarter experienced moderate to severe bothersome hot flushes and night sweats.

Awareness and access to care 4 in 10 women with bothersome symptoms are not accessing care with a general practitioner (GP).

Early menopause 1 in 10 women experience early menopause (before age 45) and 1 in 25 experience premature ovarian insufficiency (before age 40).

Secondary complications Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, osteoporosis and poor mental health following menopause.