Hormonal Change
Hormonal changes can affect how you feel physically and emotionally, sometimes subtly, sometimes dramatically. If you feel “not quite yourself”, you’re not alone. Our Private GP service offers supportive, science-led assessment and personalised care plans for women experiencing symptoms commonly linked to perimenopause and menopause.
We take time to listen
We take time to listen, explore what’s going on, and discuss options that may help, from lifestyle and symptom support through to licensed medical treatments where appropriate, following a full clinical assessment.
Important: Any prescription treatment is only offered if clinically suitable following consultation and safety checks. Results vary between individuals.
When to consider an appointment
You may wish to speak to a GP with an interest in women’s hormonal health if you’re experiencing symptoms such as:
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Sleep disruption and fatigue
- Low mood, anxiety, irritability or “brain fog”
- Reduced motivation or confidence
- Joint aches, headaches, palpitations
- Changes in skin, hair, or weight
- Reduced libido
- Urinary symptoms
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort
Symptoms can overlap with other medical issues, so a proper assessment is important. (This also helps avoid assuming everything is “just hormones”.)
We will always explain options clearly so you can make an informed choice.
How we can help?
Your appointment focuses on safe, individualised decision-making, based on your symptoms, medical history, preferences and risk factors.
Depending on your situation, your plan may include:
- A structured symptom and lifestyle review
- Discussion of perimenopause/menopause stages and what’s typical
- Consideration of appropriate investigations (where clinically indicated)
- Lifestyle approaches (sleep, stress, nutrition, movement, alcohol, caffeine)
- Non-prescription symptom strategies
- Discussion of licensed treatment options for menopausal symptoms where suitable (including benefits, risks, and alternatives), in line with recognised guidance
- Follow-up to review response and adjust the plan
What to expect
Safety and suitability
Some treatments are not suitable for everyone, and some symptoms may require investigation for other causes. Where prescription treatment is considered, we follow responsible prescribing standards and will discuss:
- contraindications and individual risk factors
- side effects and what to monitor
- expected timescales for reassessment
- when to seek urgent medical advice
FAQ
Do you offer HRT?
We can discuss whether hormone treatment might be appropriate, including explaining potential benefits and risks, and alternatives. If prescription treatment is suitable, it can only be offered following a full clinical assessment. We do not guarantee that any specific treatment will be appropriate for every patient.
Do I need blood tests?
We can discuss whether hormone treatment might be appropriate, including explaining potential benefits and risks, and alternatives. If prescription treatment is suitable, it can only be offered following a full clinical assessment. We do not guarantee that any specific treatment will be appropriate for every patient.
How quickly will I feel better?
Responses vary. Some approaches may help within weeks, while others take longer and may need adjustment. We’ll agree a sensible review timeframe and a plan for next steps.
Is menopause always the cause of my symptoms
Not always, and it’s important not to miss other conditions. We’ll consider the wider picture and recommend investigations or referrals where appropriate.
Can you help with vaginal dryness or urinary symptoms?
Yes, these symptoms are common around menopause and can often be improved. We’ll discuss suitable options based on your symptoms and medical history.
Dr Sally Louden
BM, BS, B Med Sci, DGM, DRCOG, FFP, MRCGP,
Cert Gynae Ultrasound, BMS Menopause Specialist and Trainer
Meet Dr Sally Louden
Dr Sally Louden Private GP
Dr Sally has been working as a GP in the NHS for nearly 30 years, helping women with all aspects of their healthcare at every point in their lives. She believes many women struggle to access clear, scientific, balanced advice during perimenopause and menopause, and she is passionate about helping women feel informed, supported and confident in their choices. Her approach is practical, compassionate and evidence-based, focused on helping you feel more like yourself again.
“I have been an advocate for women’s health throughout my career. Starting with my first Menopausal Medicine Certificate in Australia in 1993, I returned to NHS General Practice in the UK and became a Family Planning Trainer, before completing the British advanced module of menopausal medicine and the Certificate of Gynae Ultrasound. Following that, I became a British Menopause Society Menopause Specialist in 2016 and I now train other doctors in Menopausal Medicine.
I have been working as a GP in the NHS for nearly 30 years, helping women with all aspects of their healthcare at every point in their lives. I believe that many women struggle to get sensible scientific advice in the NHS at a challenging time in their lives, and I hope to help many women to get back to their former selves.
