Advising women about the menopause
It is sensible to explain the stages of menopause to the woman and common symptoms to expect. Possible management options and the advantages, disadvantages, adverse effects and duration of treatments should be discussed. Emphasising the importance of regular breast screening (every 3 years to women aged 50 years or over) and cervical screening (3-yearly to women between ages 25-29 and 5-yearly between ages 50-65) is sensible. Reminding women that HRT does not provide contraception is important and that women should be considered potentially fertile for 1 year after their last menstrual period if they are over 50 years of age but for 2 years if they are under 50 years of age.