Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps he is taking to support the mental health of women going through (a) menopause, (b) perimenopause and (c) hormonal treatment related to menopause.

The Government recognises the impact menopause can have on women’s lives.

The Renewed Women’s Health Strategy identifies menopause as a core women’s health priority, recognising its impact on women’s health, wellbeing, work, and quality of life. The strategy shifts menopause care into primary and community settings, including neighbourhood women’s health services and women’s health hubs, making care easier to access and closer to home.

Each region will have a specialist centre to support group-based clinics in women’s health, including menopause services, improving access, peer support, and consistency, with early rollout focused on areas of highest need. The strategy also commits to improving information and awareness so that women know their symptoms can be effectively managed, including through evidence-based treatments.

Menopause can have a significant impact on a woman’s mental health, with low mood and anxiety among the possible symptoms. It is important that all women experiencing perimenopause, menopause, or symptoms associated with menopause treatment can access high-quality healthcare support.

Any woman concerned about her mental health should seek advice from her general practitioner or another healthcare professional. Women can also self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies services, which help people experiencing common mental health problems such as stress, anxiety, and depression.