A menopause specialist is not a protected term so in theory anyone could call themselves a menopause specialist, so it is good to be aware of the professionals usually involved and what qualifications are needed.

Doctors that choose to specialise in menopause often have a background either as a GP, or as a gynaecologist, and they have usually done additional training in the subject of menopause and HRT prescribing.

The most well recognised certification in the UK for additional training is from the British Menopause Society, or the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive health, so you could look out for, or ask a professional if they are BMS/FSRH certified. Dr Summerhill is dual qualified. 

Many, often female, GPs have an interest in women’s health which includes family planning and menopause, and although they may not have had the time to do the BMS training, they will still be experienced in looking after menopausal women and prescribing HRT.

Some pharmacists, practice nurses or gynaecology nurse specialists have undertaken additional training to be able to prescribe HRT for menopausal women.

If you have a complex medical history, including breast cancer, you may wish to see someone from a specialist menopause clinic either on the NHS or privately. There is great variability across the country in NHS menopause clinics however, and in their referral criteria and waiting times.