The menopause consultation.
1BMedSci (Hons), BMBS, FRACGP, FRACGP-RG, General Practitioner, Jean Hailes for Women@s Health, Melbourne, Vic; General Practitioner, Ballarat Women@s Clinic, Ballarat, Vic; General Practitioner, Spring Medical, Daylesford, Vic; Visiting Medical Officer, Daylesford District Hospital, Daylesford, Vic.
Australian Journal of General Practice
|April 6, 2026
Summary
General practitioners (GPs) should provide evidence-based menopause information and psychosocial support. Consultations offer opportunities to guide women toward healthy aging and manage risks like cardiovascular and bone health changes.
Area of Science:
- General Practice
- Women's Health
- Endocrinology
Background:
- The menopausal transition involves significant hormonal fluctuations, often prompting women to seek medical advice from their general practitioner (GP).
- Menopause consultations require a structured and empathetic approach due to their complex and multi-faceted nature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline essential elements for conducting effective menopause consultations.
- To address the impact of hormonal changes during menopause and associated midlife health risks.
Main Methods:
- This paper synthesizes key components for menopause consultations.
- It emphasizes a holistic assessment including hormonal impacts and broader midlife health.
Main Results:
- GPs are crucial in delivering evidence-based menopause information.
- Symptom management should integrate a psychosocial framework.
- Future health risks, particularly cardiovascular and bone health, require attention.
Conclusions:
- Menopause consultations are vital for guiding women towards healthy aging.
- They enhance the GP-patient relationship and facilitate longitudinal primary care.
- Addressing menopause symptoms within a psychosocial context supports overall well-being.
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