Menopause support.
Perimenopause and menopause bring a set of changes that can be confusing, sometimes for years before the transition is complete. Aurora GPs manage this phase as an ongoing area of care, with support from our endocrinologist and gynaecologist where the picture calls for it. Time to talk properly, options explained, and a plan you can adjust as things shift.
A life stage, not a condition.
Menopause is a life stage, not a condition, but the changes that come with it can affect quality of life significantly. Perimenopause, the transition into menopause, can last several years and often starts earlier than women expect. Symptoms range from hot flushes and sleep disturbance to mood changes, brain fog, joint aches, changes in libido and sexual comfort, and shifts in cardiovascular and bone health.
For many women, symptoms are manageable and don't need much intervention. For others, they interfere with work, relationships and daily function. There's no single right approach to menopause management, and the right approach for you often changes over time.
Aurora GPs manage perimenopause and menopause as an ongoing area of care rather than a one-off consultation. First appointments usually involve a full review of your history, current symptoms, health goals and any concerns about hormone therapy or alternatives. From there, a plan is agreed and reviewed as needed.
Where symptoms are complex, where hormone therapy carries specific considerations, or where an endocrine or gynaecological picture is contributing, Aurora can bring in our endocrinologist Dr Thaw Dar Htet or our obstetrician-gynaecologist Dr Aye Thidar Htun for input.
Eight areas we work across.
Hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbance, mood changes, cognitive changes, joint and muscle aches, weight and metabolism changes, urinary symptoms, sexual changes.
Formerly called HRT. Whether it's appropriate for you, which type suits your situation, and how to monitor and adjust it. MHT is safe and effective for most women within ten years of their final period, and the decision is individual.
Lifestyle approaches, nutrition support, exercise, cognitive behavioural approaches for hot flushes and sleep, non-hormonal medications where appropriate.
Vaginal dryness, painful sex, urinary symptoms. Local treatments are effective for most women and safe even for those who cannot use systemic MHT.
Osteoporosis risk assessment, bone density testing, calcium and vitamin D, exercise recommendations, medications where indicated.
Blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, exercise and dietary review. Cardiovascular risk changes at menopause and it's a good moment to reset your prevention plan.
Mood changes, anxiety, cognitive symptoms. Menopause and midlife can bring genuine mental health challenges that respond well to appropriate treatment.
Menopause before 40 has different implications and different management. Aurora GPs handle this with specialist coordination where needed.
Where the picture warrants it.
Referrals within Aurora are seamless. Your GP writes the referral and coordinates continuity of care back to you.
Across all three centres.
Longer consultations.
Menopause consultations are typically longer than standard consultations because there's more to cover. For eligible patients who've seen their regular Aurora GP within the last twelve months, a bulk-billed appointment type is available.
For new patients, and for patients without recent continuity, longer consultations attract a private fee with a Medicare rebate applying to eligible items. Reception confirms your specific GP's fee at booking.
Specialist referrals to Dr Htet or Dr Htun are privately billed with a Medicare rebate applying when a valid GP referral is in place.
Allied Health support through our psychology and counselling team is privately billed. Reception confirms the specific practitioner's fee at booking, and Medicare or private health insurance rebates may apply for eligible items with a valid Mental Health Care Plan.
Common questions.
When should I book if I think I'm in perimenopause?
Any time you're noticing changes that concern you. Perimenopause can start in the early forties for some women and later for others. Symptoms don't have to be severe to be worth reviewing.
Do I need any tests before my first appointment?
No. Your Aurora GP will arrange any tests that are useful based on your history. Menopause is diagnosed clinically, not by blood test in most cases.
Is menopausal hormone therapy safe?
For most healthy women within ten years of their final period, current evidence supports MHT as safe and effective for symptom management. There are considerations for specific groups. Your GP will walk through your individual profile and the current evidence.
What if I've had breast cancer or another condition where MHT isn't appropriate?
Non-hormonal options are effective for many symptoms. Local vaginal treatments have different safety profiles from systemic MHT. Your GP will review what's suitable for you.
Can I book an Aurora GP just for menopause and keep my usual GP for other things?
Yes. Many women see an Aurora GP specifically for menopause care while continuing to see their existing GP for general care. We coordinate so nothing falls between the cracks.
Is there anything I can do myself?
Yes, and lifestyle contributions matter. Sleep, exercise, nutrition, alcohol moderation, stress management and social connection all play a role. Your Aurora GP can help you build a plan that's realistic for your circumstances.
