Case scenario

Katya, 46, requests to speak with you about persistent vaginal discomfort. She reports an intense burning sensation and significant vaginal dryness. Her GP performed a vaginal swab, which was negative for bacterial, fungal and sexually transmitted infections. She has experienced urinary tract infections before, but this feels different. She reports no fever, flank pain or lower urinary tract symptoms.

Katya describes feeling fatigued, forgetful and irritable in recent years, and reports feeling overwhelmed and less able to enjoy activities she once loved. She also notes her previously regular menstrual cycle has become erratic, now occurring every 3–4 months.

Learning outcomes

After reading this article, pharmacists should be able to:

  • Describe the menopause transition and identify common symptoms and clinical features.
  • Recognise perimenopause as a key opportunity for pharmacists to support preventive healthcare and early intervention. 
  • Discuss evidence-based management options for menopause, including the role of evidence-based menopausal hormone therapy.
  • Explain common misconceptions relating to menopause management, including testosterone therapy and compounded bioidentical hormones.

Competency standards (2016) addressed: 1.1, 1.4, 1.5, 1.3, 2.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.5

Accreditation number: PSAAP2607MJ

Accreditation expiry: 30/06/2028

Accreditation points: Up to 1.5 Group 2 CPD

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