Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy is the most effective treatment for many perimenopausal symptoms. This usually includes oestrogen and, if you have a womb, progesterone. Some women may also benefit from testosterone. At Menopause Care, our BMS (British Menopause Society) registered specialists prescribe regulated, body-identical hormone therapies in line with national guidance. Your treatment is individualised and reviewed regularly, as hormone needs often change during perimenopause.

Non-hormonal and supportive treatments

Some women benefit from additional support alongside or instead of hormone therapy. This may include:Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)Lifestyle and nutritional supportVaginal oestrogenPsychological supportThis whole-person approach reflects the reality that a single hormone rarely drives symptoms.

How is perimenopause diagnosed?

Perimenopause is usually diagnosed based on symptoms rather than a single test.For most women over the age of 45, hormone blood tests are not required. However, blood tests may be recommended in certain situations, including:Symptoms occurring under the age of 40Unclear diagnosis between the ages of 40 and 45To exclude other conditions such as thyroid disorders or anaemiaA specialist perimenopause assessment considers your complete medical history and symptoms, so many women can benefit from seeing a clinician with advanced menopause training who are registered with the British Menopause Society.

What is the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the transition phase leading up to menopause, when hormones fluctuate and symptoms can begin. Menopause is confirmed once you have had no periods for 12 months. Symptoms can occur in both stages, and treatment can be appropriate in either.

How do I know if I am in perimenopause?

Perimenopause often begins before periods stop. You may notice changes in your cycle, sleep, mood, energy, or how you feel day to day. Some people experience hot flushes or night sweats, while others mainly notice anxiety, low mood, brain fog, or irritability. A clinician experienced in perimenopause can help assess your symptoms in context and rule out other causes.

What if I think I might be in early perimenopause?

Early perimenopause is one of the most overlooked stages. If you feel different, but you are being told everything looks “normal”, specialist support can help you get clarity and avoid months or years of unnecessary uncertainty.

I am still having regular periods. Can it still be perimenopause?

Yes. Many people are in early perimenopause while still having regular periods. Symptoms can start years before cycles become irregular, which is why early perimenopause is often missed.

Do I need blood tests to confirm perimenopause?

Not always. For many people, perimenopause is diagnosed based on symptoms and medical history. Blood tests can sometimes be helpful, especially if symptoms are unclear or there are other possible causes. Your clinician will recommend tests only if appropriate.

How much does a private perimenopause specialist appointment cost in the UK?

A new patient menopause specialist consultation is £295 for 45 minutes. Follow-up options are £225 for 30 minutes.

Can specialist care help if my symptoms are still early or unclear?

Absolutely. Specialists for early perimenopause symptoms can provide timely support before symptoms escalate, whilst ruling out other causes, ensuring personalised and effective management.

Are Menopause Care doctors trained perimenopause specialists?

Yes, our doctors at Menopause Care are British Menopause Society (BMS) registered menopause specialists and are listed on the BMS Specialist Register.

Do I need a referral to see a Menopause Care specialist?

No. You can self-refer for a private appointment. Clinic letters can be shared with your GP if you wish.

Can I access specialist perimenopause care online?

Yes. Online consultations provide access to experienced perimenopause clinicians across the UK, with the same clinical standards as in-person appointments.

What happens in my first appointment?

Your clinician will take a full medical history, discuss your symptoms in detail, and assess your individual risk factors. You will receive a personalised treatment plan and clear next steps, including options for lifestyle support, non-hormonal treatment, and hormone therapy where appropriate.

For many people, HRT is a safe and effective option. Safety depends on your medical history, symptoms, and individual risk factors. Your clinician will discuss whether HRT is appropriate for you, and explain benefits and risks in plain language.

I have a history of anxiety or low mood. Can you still help?

Yes. Mood symptoms are common in perimenopause, and they can overlap with or worsen existing anxiety or depression. Your clinician will take this into account and help you explore options that support both mental and physical wellbeing.

What if I am not sure I want treatment yet?

That is completely fine. Many people want clarity first. The first appointment is designed to give you a clear clinical assessment and a personalised plan, even if you decide not to start treatment straight away.

What if I have complex medical history or I am not sure HRT is right for me?

Specialist input can be especially valuable if you have migraines, high blood pressure, a family history of breast cancer, or other health considerations. Your clinician will take a careful, personalised approach and discuss options that fit your situation.

What if I am already on HRT but still have symptoms?

This is common. Symptoms may persist if the dose, type, or balance of hormones is not quite right. A specialist review can help assess what is happening and adjust your plan safely.

Can Menopause Care provide prescriptions?

Yes. Menopause Care can provide prescriptions directly through our in-house pharmacy, ensuring you receive your treatment safely, conveniently, and without delay. Our clinicians review your treatment regularly and tailor it to your individual needs, so you can feel confident that your care is both personalised and seamless.

Where are the face-to-face clinics at Menopause Care located?

Menopause Care has clinics across the UK, including locations in London (Mayfair, Barnes, and Wimbledon), as well as Manchester, Sheffield, and Glasgow.

How we can help

Pricing Our specialists Clinic locations Resources

Specialist-led care. Safe, personalised treatment. Ongoing support.

Perimenopause Care

When something feels “not quite right”

Specialist, doctor-led care for women navigating perimenopause and the years leading up to menopause.

You may not have missed a period. You may not think of yourself as “menopausal.”

But something has shifted.

Perimenopause can begin years before your final period. Hormone levels fluctuate in ways that are subtle, unpredictable and often difficult to recognise at first.

Our BMS-registered specialist doctors provide careful assessment and personalised treatment, helping you understand what is happening and feel more like you again.

BMS accredited doctors, available online

Personalised medication delivered

A support team to help coordinate your care

Spread the cost of your care with Klarna

BMS accredited doctors, available online

Personalised medication delivered

A support team to help coordinate your care

Spread the cost of your care with Klarna

247 reviews4.7⧸5

When something feels “not quite right”

Perimenopause is the stage before menopause when hormone levels begin to change and fluctuate.

Perimenopause can affect how you feel physically, mentally and emotionally - often in ways that are unexpected, changeable, or hard to explain. Many women might feel something is "not quite right" long before menopause, all while struggling to get clear answers.

Consulting one of the UK’s leading perimenopause doctors can provide clarity and personalised support during this transition.

What to expect

How our care works

1
Specialist consultation (45 min)
A menopause specialist doctor takes time to explore your symptoms, hormonal stage, medical history, and any existing concerns
2
Personalised plan
You will receive a personalised care plan based on your symptoms, medical history, and priorities. This may include hormone treatment where appropriate, alongside practical lifestyle and wellbeing support
3
Ongoing review and support
Prescription management, blood tests if needed, and continuity of care for as long as you need

1 I am in my late 30s, 40s, or early 50s and feel different to how I used to

2 My periods are changing in timing, flow, or predictability, even if they have not stopped

3 I am more anxious, irritable, or low than before, and I cannot see a clear reason why

4 I am experiencing physical symptoms that I did not expect, such as brain fog, hot flushes, or palpitations

5 I have been told my symptoms are stress-related, but that does not fully explain how I feel

6 I want to understand whether what I am experiencing could be perimenopause

Treatment options for perimenopause

Perimenopause is a natural life stage, but treatment can help manage symptoms and protect long-term health.

Our Approach

Every person’s experience of perimenopause is different. Our role is to help you understand how hormonal changes may be affecting your body and mind, and explore safe and evidence-based treatment options. Your care is led by specialist clinicians experienced in perimenopause and women’s health. We take a thoughtful, supportive, and non-judgmental approach, combining medical expertise with care that is tailored to you.

Expert-led care

Doctors experienced in hormonal, mood and wellbeing concerns

Safe prescribing

Hormonal and non-hormonal options as clinically appropriate

Personalised and holistic treatment plans

Care tailored to your symptoms, history and goals, with lifestyle, nutritional and psychological strategies

Continuity

Regular follow-up and ongoing support

Our Founder, Dr Naomi Potter, on how we’re here to help

“I had met so many patients who felt confused about their symptoms, anxious without clear guidance, and left without a diagnosis or information about menopause. With Menopause Care, I wanted to change that, offering the support, knowledge, and compassion women deserve to feel their best through midlife.”

Success stories from our patients

Hear from our patients who are on the path to feeling like themselves again, and who share their experiences of feeling listened to, supported, and guided through their menopause care.