Perimenopause Private vs NHS Care: What You Need to Know
Weighing up perimenopause private vs NHS care? This guide covers what each route offers, costs, waiting times, and how to get the right support for your symptoms.
Why Your Choice of Care Matters in Perimenopause
Getting the right support during perimenopause can feel like navigating a maze. Symptoms vary widely, appointments can feel rushed, and not every GP has specialist knowledge in menopause medicine. Understanding your options, whether through the NHS or private care, helps you make informed decisions about your health rather than just taking what comes.
What NHS Perimenopause Care Looks Like
The NHS is your first port of call for most women. Your GP can assess symptoms, discuss lifestyle changes, and prescribe HRT if appropriate. NHS menopause clinics exist in many areas, though referral criteria and waiting times vary significantly by region. Some areas offer excellent specialist menopause services, while others have long waits or GPs with limited menopause training. It helps to specifically ask your surgery whether any of their GPs hold a menopause qualification, as this can make a meaningful difference to the quality of your consultation.
What Private Perimenopause Care Offers
Private menopause clinics typically offer longer appointments (30 to 60 minutes vs the usual 10 minutes on the NHS), consultants with specialist menopause training, and faster access. You can expect a thorough review of your symptoms, hormonal history, and treatment options. Private prescriptions for HRT are available, though the cost of the medication itself can be higher than NHS prescriptions. Some women use private care for diagnosis and initial treatment, then return to their NHS GP for ongoing prescriptions.
Costs to Expect with Private Care
A private menopause consultation typically costs between £150 and £300 for an initial appointment in the UK, with follow-ups ranging from £80 to £150. Some clinics offer online consultations at lower rates. If you have private health insurance, check whether menopause care is covered as policies vary. The cost of private HRT prescriptions can add up, so it is worth asking your GP whether they can take over prescribing once your treatment plan is established.
How to Get the Most from NHS Care
Before your NHS appointment, write down your symptoms clearly, including when they started and how they affect daily life. Ask directly about HRT options rather than waiting to be offered them. If your GP seems uncertain, it is perfectly reasonable to ask for a referral to a specialist menopause clinic. The British Menopause Society website has a directory of accredited menopause specialists, both NHS and private, which can help you find someone with the right expertise in your area.
Making the Decision That Is Right for You
There is no single right answer. Many women start with their NHS GP, and if they feel well supported, that is enough. Others find that a private consultation gives them the thorough, unhurried conversation they have been missing. Some combine both routes. Whatever path you take, the goal is the same: getting care that takes your symptoms seriously and supports your quality of life during this transition.
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