Premature Menopause - A Change Too Soon, UK

Main Category: Menopause
Also Included In: Endocrinology
Article Date: 18 Oct 2007 - 1:00 PDT

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In Britain today some 120 000 women per year experience premature menopause, menopause before the age of 40.

Psychologically, emotionally and physiologically the impact of the condition is immensely challenging for women and their families. The causes still remain largely enigmatic.

In November, the Consumer's Forum of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) will hold a Public Meeting in London on premature menopause.

The meeting is an opportunity for members of the public to come together to seek and share information on experiencing a premature menopause. Leading experts will present information explaining what the condition is and how it can be managed including new developments, the psychological impact and the implications for fertility.

Representatives from support groups, such as Women's Health Concern, will be on hand throughout the day to offer advice and give information about relevant support networks. The meeting will also include a number of workshops that will look at lifestyle and coping strategies.

Lesley Briggs, member of the RCOG Consumer's Forum and co-organiser of the meeting said "We have become increasingly aware of the problems women experience when undergoing a premature menopause, such as a higher risk of osteoporosis at an earlier age than most other women."

"Yet, much of the current information and research is directed towards older women experiencing a natural menopause. The needs of younger women regarding treatment of symptoms and conditions, which often require long-term management, can differ greatly leading to confusion and anxiety."

"Our public meeting will attempt to address this gap in knowledge. We hope those attending will leave the event with more insight into premature menopause and be empowered to become active participants, working with their doctor, to manage their condition."

Highlights from the programme include:

- Implications for fertility - and advances in fertility care
Adrian Lower

- HRT
Peter Bowen-Simpkins

- Psychological Issues and Implications
Myra Hunter and Danii Singer, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London

The meeting is free to attend and gives women and their partners, families and friends a chance to share their experiences, hear the latest information about premature menopause, make contact with relevant support networks and learn more about the condition and how it can be managed.

Premature Menopause - A Change Too Soon will take place at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, on Saturday 03 November from 10.00am until 16.30pm. For further information or to attend please contact Gerald Chan, gchan@rcog.org.uk.

http://www.rcog.org.uk