Women living with severe symptoms of menopause will be able to access specialised care at four Australian-first health hubs, with another 12 services to open across the state, thanks to the NSW Nationals in the state government’s $40 million 2022-23 Budget commitment over four years.
The four menopause hubs include a rural network hub led by Hunter New England in 2023.
The services had been designed by clinical experts and women who had experienced severe symptoms of menopause, as part of a statewide taskforce.
The networked hubs and services will be staffed by doctors, allied health professionals and nurses who will support women across NSW by providing the most up-to-date, specialised care.
Nationals Minister for Women and Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said about 50 per cent of women experience significant menopause symptoms, including hot flushes, headaches, brain fog, loss of word memory, body aches and pains and insomnia, while around one in five women suffer extreme symptoms.
“Many women suffer these symptoms in silence and do not seek the support and treatment they need. We want to break down the social stigma around talking about menopause and encourage women to share their experiences,” Mrs Taylor said.
“To start the conversation we have launched an awareness campaign and a Menopause Toolkit, which provide clear information about perimenopause and menopause, as well as information about accessing services in NSW.”
Associate Professor John Eden, Reproductive Endocrinologist and Director Sydney Menopause Clinic, Royal Hospital for Women said most women experiencing severe menopausal symptoms are not receiving any treatment however these unpleasant symptoms can be safely and effectively managed.
All 16 networked menopause services are expected to be operational by late 2023.
Women can access the specialised menopause services through their general practitioner.
