Your questions, answered

Yes. HRT can be prescribed during perimenopause while your periods continue. The type and dosing regime will be tailored to where you are in your cycle — our doctor will discuss the most appropriate options for your stage.

For most women, modern body-identical HRT is considered safe and the benefits significantly outweigh the risks. The evidence has moved on considerably from the 2002 WHI study that caused widespread concern. Current NICE guidelines support HRT as a first-line treatment for menopause symptoms. our doctor will discuss your individual risk profile in detail and help you make a fully informed decision.

Body-identical hormones are chemically identical to the hormones your body produces naturally — as opposed to the older synthetic hormones used in some earlier studies. They are derived from plant sources and are available as gels, patches, sprays and tablets. Utrogestan (micronised progesterone) is the body-identical progesterone used in most modern HRT regimes.

Testosterone is a hormone produced naturally by women that declines significantly around menopause. Low testosterone in women can cause fatigue, brain fog, low mood and reduced libido. Testosterone therapy — prescribed as a gel applied to the skin in doses much lower than male formulations — is licensed for women with low libido associated with menopause and is increasingly recognised for broader benefits. It is often unavailable on the NHS. our doctor can assess and prescribe testosterone where appropriate.

Not necessarily. Menopause is primarily a clinical diagnosis based on symptoms and history — blood tests are not always required and can be misleading in perimenopause due to fluctuating hormone levels. our doctor may recommend blood tests as part of your assessment, but they are not a prerequisite for your first appointment.

Yes, if you'd like us to. A summary letter covering your consultation, diagnosis and treatment plan can be sent to your NHS GP. This can help ensure continuity of care — for example, if you'd like your GP to issue repeat prescriptions for your HRT going forward. It is entirely your choice.

This is one of the most common things we hear. Normal FSH blood tests do not rule out perimenopause — particularly in the early stages, when hormones fluctuate unpredictably. Perimenopause can begin in the late 30s and symptoms are often wide-ranging. A clinical assessment of your full symptom picture is the most important diagnostic tool. Book a consultation with our doctor — you don't need your GP's agreement to do so.

This depends on your medical history, contraceptive needs, preferences about periods, and whether you're also using the coil as part of HRT. our doctor will discuss all three options in detail at your appointment. As a guide: Mirena is the most popular hormonal choice, lasting up to 8 years and often stopping periods; Kyleena is smaller with a lower hormone dose, lasting 5 years; the copper IUD is completely hormone-free, lasting up to 10 years.

Yes. Coils can be fitted in women who have not had children, though the fitting may be slightly more uncomfortable. The Kyleena IUS is smaller and may be a better fit in this case. our doctor will discuss the most appropriate option based on your individual anatomy and circumstances.

The fitting itself takes approximately 5 minutes. Your appointment will also include a brief consultation beforehand. In total, allow around 30 minutes for your visit. You can drive home and return to normal activities the same day. Light cramping for 1–2 days afterwards is normal.

Yes. our doctor can remove coils fitted at any clinic or GP practice — not just those fitted here. If you'd like a replacement fitted at the same appointment, this can be arranged in advance.

The area is numbed with local anaesthetic before insertion. The injection of anaesthetic is the only significant discomfort — once the area is numb, you may feel a little pressure but not pain. The procedure takes under 2 minutes. Some bruising at the site is normal for a few days afterwards.

Yes. The Mirena IUS releases a low dose of progestogen locally and can provide the progesterone component of an HRT regime, combined with systemic oestrogen (gel, patch or spray). This can simplify your hormone management and is an approach our doctor is experienced in prescribing.

A full hormone panel covers oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), LH (luteinising hormone) and thyroid function (TSH, T3, T4). This gives a comprehensive picture of your hormonal health and is useful when assessing perimenopause, investigating fatigue or mood changes, or reviewing ongoing hormone treatment.

A well woman check covers blood pressure, BMI, cardiovascular risk assessment, cervical screening, breast awareness guidance, discussion of your family history, lifestyle review, and any health concerns you want to raise. It's a thorough, proactive health review in a single 40-minute appointment — tailored to your age, history and priorities.

Yes. our doctor can write a detailed referral letter to any private specialist — gynaecologist, endocrinologist, or other — with your full clinical background included. This is often faster and more comprehensive than being referred through your NHS GP.

Absolutely. Book a general consultation and describe what's been on your mind. our doctor will take a full history, assess what's going on, and advise on the right next step — whether that's a test, a treatment, a procedure or a referral. You don't need to arrive with a specific diagnosis or request.

We are not currently registered with insurance providers. We can provide an itemised receipt after your appointment, which you can submit to your insurer directly for possible reimbursement — though coverage will depend on your policy. We recommend checking with your insurer before booking.

We accept all major credit and debit cards and bank transfer. Payment is taken at the time of appointment. Full payment details will be provided in your booking confirmation.

Prescriptions written at your appointment are included in the consultation fee with no additional charge from us. Medication costs — whether dispensed at a private pharmacy or through your NHS pharmacy — are separate and will vary depending on the medication prescribed.

The clinic is located in central Manchester with good public transport links and parking nearby. Full address and directions — including parking information — are sent in your appointment confirmation email.

Yes. All your records are completely confidential. Nothing is shared with your NHS GP, employer, insurance company or anyone else without your explicit consent. We comply fully with UK data protection law (UK GDPR). Our Privacy Policy covers exactly how your data is stored and used.