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Menopause-related workload in general practice 1996-2005: a retrospective study in the UK
Lisa Iversen1, Elizabeth K Delaney, Philip C Hannaford
1Centre of Academic Primary Care, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill Health Centre, Westburn Road, Aberdeen AB25 2AY, UK. l.iversen@abdn.ac.uk
Family Practice
|June 10, 2010
Summary
Menopause consultations in UK general practice have decreased, but remain significant. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) prescribing declined, with shifts in preparation types observed.
Area of Science:
- General Practice
- Women's Health
- Menopause Management
Background:
- Menopausal symptoms frequently lead women to consult healthcare professionals.
- A decline in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) prescribing has occurred, but its impact on general practice workload is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if menopause continues to be a significant factor in general practice workload.
- To analyze trends in menopause-related consultations and treatments over time.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational study using UK General Practice Research Database data from 1996-2005.
- Analysis of consultation incidence/prevalence, gynaecology referrals, and prescriptions for HRT, clonidine, and antidepressants in women aged 45-64.
Main Results:
- Menopause-related consultations decreased from 18.1% in 1996 to 10.4% in 2005.
- HRT prescribing declined significantly, particularly oral forms, with increased use of topical preparations.
- Gynaecology referrals and clonidine prescribing rose but remained infrequent; antidepressant patterns were not linked to menopause.
Conclusions:
- Menopause-related workload in UK general practice has reduced.
- Despite the decline, over 10% of women aged 45-64 consulted for menopause issues in 2005, indicating its continued importance.
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