Menopause (HRT)

What is Menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?

Menopause marks the natural end of menstruation and fertility, usually occurring between ages 45 and 55. It happens when your ovaries stop producing eggs and levels of hormones like oestrogen begin to drop. These hormonal changes can lead to symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) helps relieve these symptoms by replenishing oestrogen levels in the body. It’s available in various forms — including tablets, patches, and gels — and can significantly improve your quality of life during menopause.

What are the stages of menopause?

Menopause doesn't happen overnight — it unfolds over several years. Understanding the stages can help you feel more in control:

• Perimenopause: This is the transitional phase when your hormones begin to shift and periods become irregular. It may last for a few months or up to 10 years.
• Menopause: You officially reach menopause when you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. This is when oestrogen levels drop significantly, and symptoms like hot flushes or mood swings are common.
• Postmenopause: This is the time after menopause. Symptoms may ease, but some health risks — like osteoporosis — may increase due to lower oestrogen levels.

If you’re unsure what stage you’re in, our prescribers can guide you through your options during a confidential assessment.

What can cause menopause earlier in life?

While menopause typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, some women experience it earlier. Common causes of early or premature menopause include:

• Primary ovarian insufficiency (where ovaries stop working properly before age 40)
• Surgical menopause (after removal of ovaries)
• Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or pelvic radiation
• Genetic conditions or autoimmune diseases

Regardless of the cause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may still be a suitable option to relieve symptoms and protect long-term health. Your treatment will be tailored to your individual medical background and needs.

How safe is HRT?

HRT is generally safe for most women, but it’s not suitable for everyone. You may not be able to take HRT if you have:

• A history of breast, womb, or ovarian cancer
• Liver disease
• Blood clots or cardiovascular disease
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure

Women who’ve had a hysterectomy may be prescribed oestrogen-only HRT, while others may need combined HRT to protect the womb lining. Our prescribers assess your medical history to find the safest, most effective treatment option.

What types of HRT are available?

There are several ways to take HRT:

• Tablets: Easy to take daily.
• Patches: Applied to the skin and changed weekly.
• Gels or creams: Absorbed through the skin.
• Vaginal treatments: For localised symptoms like dryness.

Your treatment may contain just oestrogen or a combination of oestrogen and progesterone. Our online consultation will help determine the right type and dose for your needs.

How soon does HRT work?

It may take a few weeks before you notice improvements, and side effects — like bloating or breast tenderness — are common early on. Most women are advised to try HRT for at least 3 months before considering changes. Regular reviews ensure your treatment continues to suit you.

Can I buy HRT treatment online?

Yes. At Click Pharmacy, you can complete a short online consultation, and one of our UK-regulated prescribers will assess your responses. Once approved, your treatment is discreetly delivered to your door with Royal Mail.

If your selected treatment isn’t suitable, we may offer a free online consultation to discuss alternatives.

What are the risks and side effects of HRT?

Like all medications, HRT has potential risks. These may include:

• Breast tenderness
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Spotting or irregular bleeding

In rare cases, there may be an increased risk of blood clots or certain cancers with long-term use. That’s why HRT is prescribed at the lowest effective dose and monitored with regular reviews.

If you experience any severe symptoms or allergic reactions, seek immediate medical advice.

Will HRT cause weight gain?

There is no strong evidence that HRT directly causes weight gain. However, hormonal changes during menopause can affect metabolism. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help you feel your best.

What are the benefits of HRT?

• Relief from hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• Improved sleep and mood
• Reduced risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures
• Better quality of life and sense of wellbeing

When used appropriately, the benefits of HRT often outweigh the risks.

Ready to start HRT?

If you're ready to find relief from menopause symptoms, Click Pharmacy is here to help. Start by completing a short medical questionnaire — our prescribers will recommend the most suitable treatment for your needs. Treatments are delivered discreetly and securely, with trusted support every step of the way.