Menopause.

A personalised approach to thriving through change.

MHT

Your Menopause advocate.

Menopause is a natural transition in a woman’s life, marking the end of menstrual cycles and the beginning of a new phase. For many women, this stage brings unique challenges, such as hot flushes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. While these changes can feel overwhelming, they are manageable with the right support and care.

Dr Kath Whitton is here to guide you through this transition with warmth, expertise, and evidence-based solutions tailored to your needs.

With a focus on symptom relief, preventative care, and holistic wellness, Dr Kath ensures every woman can approach menopause with confidence and control. Menopause often feels like an uphill battle, marked by physical discomfort, emotional challenges, and an overwhelming sense of change. Dr Kath Whitton understands these difficulties and is dedicated to helping women find relief and reclaim their sense of self during this time.

Proactive Menopause care.

With evidence-based care, tailored treatments, and a compassionate approach, Dr Kath offers services that go beyond symptom management. Her goal is to help women navigate menopause with confidence, providing clarity, care, and the tools to thrive during this transformative phase of life.

Services

  • No two menopause experiences are alike. Dr Kath takes the time to understand your symptoms, medical history, and personal goals to create a tailored treatment plan. Whether it’s managing hot flushes, mood swings, or improving sleep, Dr Kath’s evidence-based recommendations are designed to enhance your quality of life.

  • Previously known as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), MHT is an effective option for managing menopause symptoms.

    Dr Kath carefully evaluates your individual risk factors and medical history before recommending MHT. She can inform and educate you on options, and make recommendations for the right regimen for you to manage symptoms such as:

    • Hot flushes and night sweats

    • Vaginal dryness and urinary symptoms

    • Sleep disturbances

    • Low libido

    • Bone health: MHT has been shown to reduce the risk of osteoporosis by maintaining bone density.

  • Dr Kath provides a holistic review and treatment plan. She may recommend:

    • Nutritional and lifestyle support to manage weight, improve sleep, and boost overall health.

    • Complementary therapies, including acupuncture, CBT and mindfulness strategies, to address physical and emotional symptoms.

    • Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants for dryness.

    For women who are unable or prefer not to take MHT, Dr Kath can discuss non-hormonal medications that can alleviate vasomotor symptoms, and help to improve other menopausal symptoms.

  • Experiencing menopause before the age of 40 can be a shock. Dr Kath provides specialised care for women with premature ovarian insufficiency and early menopause, addressing:

    • Hormonal replacement to alleviate symptoms and protect long-term bone and cardiovascular health.

    • Fertility advice, including donor egg options, for women wishing to conceive.

    • Emotional support to navigate this life change with confidence.

    Dr Kath can investigate underlying causes for premature menopause although often no cause is identified. Dr Kath will guide you on the importance of long-term management and overall wellbeing.

  • Menopause is an opportunity to take control of your long-term health. Dr Kath offers:

    • Bone health assessments: Using bone density scans to identify risks of osteoporosis.

    • Breast health: Regular mammograms and clinical evaluations.

    • Cardiovascular risk assessments: Monitoring cholesterol, blood pressure, and other factors.

Let’s get clear about Menopause.

Dr Kath Whitton believes in empowering women with knowledge, compassion, and evidence-based care. Menopause doesn’t have to be a time of uncertainty or discomfort. With the right information and support, you can navigate this journey feeling informed, confident, and equipped to thrive in this new phase of life. Let’s tackle your most pressing questions and get clear about what menopause really means for you.

  • Menopause is defined as the absence of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, although some women may experience it earlier due to genetics, surgery, or medical conditions. Menopause signals the end of ovulation and the body’s natural production of oestrogen.

  • Common symptoms include:

    • Hot flushes: Sudden feelings of heat that can disrupt daily activities

    • Night sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep, often leading to sleep disturbance

    • Vaginal dryness: A decrease in natural lubrication, which can cause discomfort during intercourse

    • Mood changes: Increased anxiety, irritability, or depressive episodes

    • Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

    There are a myriad of other symptoms experienced by women at this time. Each woman’s experience is unique, and symptoms can range from mild to severe.

    Dr Kath provides a kind, understanding ear and will help you with your personal needs.

  • Perimenopause refers to the transitional phase before menopause. During this time, hormonal fluctuations may cause irregular and heavy periods, mood changes, and early menopause symptoms. While perimenopause can last several years, symptoms can be effectively managed to reduce the impact they have on quality of life.

  • MHT, or Menopause Hormone Therapy, is treatment designed to replace oestrogen and other hormones that are not being produced as they once were. Studies show that MHT is safe for most women when prescribed appropriately. Dr Kath uses the latest evidence-based guidelines to minimise risks by tailoring MHT to your specific needs.

  • Dr Kath takes an individualised and evidence-based approach to managing menopause symptoms, tailoring treatments to suit each woman's unique needs and circumstances. Depending on your health history, age, and specific symptoms, here are some of the common options Dr Kath may discuss with you:

    • Low-dose contraceptive pills: For healthy women under the age of 50, a low-dose contraceptive pill can help regulate menstrual periods, alleviate perimenopausal symptoms, and provide contraception—an important consideration as women in this stage can still become pregnant

    • Progesterone-only pills: For women over 50, a progesterone-only pill may be a better option, especially if other hormonal treatments are not suitable

    • Mirena (hormone-releasing intrauterine device): This device not only provides contraception but can also effectively manage irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding, offering relief from a common symptom of perimenopause

    • Oestradiol: Available as patches, gels, or tablets, oestradiol is often used to manage hot flushes, mood swings, and other symptoms related to declining oestrogen levels

    • Non-hormonal options: For women who cannot or prefer not to use hormonal treatments, there are non-hormonal alternatives:

      • Fezolinetant (Veoza)

      • SSRI/SNRI antidepressants

      • Gabapentin

      • Clonidine.

    Dr Kath believes in empowering patients with information and providing compassionate, personalised care. If you’re unsure which treatment might be best for you, she’ll guide you through your options, addressing any questions or concerns along the way to ensure you feel confident in your care plan.

  • Absolutely. Lifestyle adjustments can have a significant impact on alleviating symptoms. Recommendations include:

    • Regular exercise: Improves mood and reduces hot flushes

    • Balanced diet: A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D supports bone health

    • Stress management: Practices such as yoga, mindfulness, or therapy can improve mental wellbeing.

    There is evidence to suggest that some of these recommendations can improve flushes and sweats, and Dr Kath will advise you on these.

    • Schedule preventative health screenings (e.g., mammograms and cervical screening test).

    • Speak with a specialist to understand your options for managing symptoms.

    • Make lifestyle adjustments early, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and maintaining a healthy weight.

Understanding Perimenopause.

Perimenopause sneaks up on you, and it’s often misunderstood. Symptoms may be brushed aside or attributed to something else, but perimenopause is a significant stage in a woman’s life that deserves attention and care.

Dr Kath Whitton is here to demystify this transition, offering tailored guidance and treatments to help you navigate perimenopause with confidence and understanding.

  • Perimenopause is the phase leading up to menopause, marked by fluctuating hormone levels as the number of eggs in the ovaries gradually diminishes. During this time, menstrual cycles can become irregular, and other symptoms can arise due to high peaks and low troughs in levels of oestrogen and other hormones. Menopause itself is defined as 12 months without a period, but perimenopause is the often-bumpy road leading there.

    How do I know if I’m in perimenopause?

    Symptoms vary, but the hallmark sign is irregular periods. You may also experience mood swings, hot flushes and joint pain. Blood tests to measure hormone levels can provide additional insights but are often not necessary as symptoms and medical history are usually the most reliable indicators.

  • The average age of menopause is 51, so perimenopause typically begins in your early to mid-40s. However, it can start earlier due to genetics, medical conditions, or treatments like surgery or chemotherapy.

  • Perimenopause symptoms can range from subtle to life-disrupting. Here’s what you might notice:

    • Menstrual changes: Irregular periods, changes in flow, or skipped cycles

    • Mood symptoms: Irritability, anxiety, or depressive feelings—especially if PMS was previously an issue

    • Hot flushes and night sweats: Sudden waves of heat that can disrupt your day or wake you at night

    • Fatigue and insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or waking up feeling unrested

    • Mental fog: Trouble focusing or remembering things

    • Physical discomforts: Joint pain, muscle aches, or headaches

    • Sexual and vaginal symptoms: Reduced libido, dryness, or discomfort during intimacy

    • Urinary issues: Increased frequency, urgency, or susceptibility to UTIs

    Dr Kath emphasises that every woman’s experience is unique. While some breeze through with minimal symptoms, others face more intense challenges. Tracking your symptoms can help identify patterns and guide treatment.

  • Dr Kath’s approach to perimenopause is comprehensive, evidence-based, and tailored to each patient’s needs. Some helpful strategies include:

    1. Personalised hormone support

    • Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT): Safely supports hormone levels to alleviate symptoms like hot flushes and vaginal dryness

    • Non-hormonal options: For those who prefer or require alternatives, lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and targeted therapies can also offer relief

    2. Lifestyle and wellness strategies

    • Dietary support: Focus on whole foods rich in nutrients to support hormonal balance

    • Physical activity: Tailored exercise plans to improve bone health, reduce stress, and boost energy

    • Mindfulness and stress management: Techniques like yoga or meditation can help ease mood symptoms, manage sweats and flushes, and improve sleep

    3. Mental and emotional wellbeing

    • Counselling or CBT: Support for managing mood changes and maintaining emotional resilience

    • Peer support: Access to groups or resources where women can share experiences and advice

  • Yes. While ovulation becomes less consistent, pregnancy is still possible until menopause is officially reached. Contraception is essential if you’re not planning to conceive.

  • Perimenopause is the lead-up to menopause, characterised by fluctuating hormone levels and irregular periods. Menopause is the point when you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months.

Be in charge of The Change.

Menopause is a time of change, but it’s also an opportunity to focus on your health and wellbeing. I encourage you to embrace a balanced diet and regular exercise, stay proactive with preventative screenings, prioritise self-care and stress management, and of course, seek support and guidance from trusted professionals.

If you’re ready to take control of your menopause journey, book your consultation today. Together, we’ll create a personalised plan to help you thrive during this transformative phase of your life.