Hormone
Replacement
Therapy (HRT)

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a highly effective treatment designed to help women manage the challenging symptoms of perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. It works by replacing the hormones, primarily oestrogen, that naturally decline in your body during this life stage. If you're experiencing menopausal symptoms that are significantly impacting your daily life, wellbeing, or sense of self, HRT could be a suitable option to help you feel like yourself again.

What does the HRT service involve?

We have two pathways, one for women who are new to HRT and another for women that have previously been treated with HRT.

New HRT user:

• Video consultation A 45-minute online video consultation with one of our experienced, UK-registered clinicians. Priced at £149, this allows us to understand your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle, forming the basis of your personalised treatment.
• Treatment plan Following your consultation, our clinician will carefully review all your information. If HRT is suitable for you, they will create a personalised treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs.
• Delivery Once your treatment plan is confirmed, your HRT prescription will be dispensed by our trusted partner pharmacy. Enjoy the convenience of discreet delivery directly to your home.
• Check-ins We include check-ins at month one and month three of your plan with one of our experienced clinicians. These sessions ensure your treatment is working effectively and allow for any necessary adjustments.
• Ongoing support You'll receive ongoing care and support whenever you need it throughout your HRT journey.

Existing HRT user:

• Quick re-assessment: Answer a few questions from our clinicians about your current medication and how it's working for you. You'll be asked to provide proof of your existing prescription.
• Clinician review and approval: Our clinicians will review your details to ensure the continuity of your safe and effective treatment.
• Fast prescription refill: Once approved, your next supply of HRT will be shipped directly and discreetly to your home.

Menopause symptoms can be diverse and disruptive. HRT is widely recognised for its ability to alleviate a range of these, including:

• Hot flushes and night sweats: Sudden, intense feelings of heat and excessive sweating.
• Mood changes: Reducing irritability, anxiety, low mood, or even depression.
• Sleep disturbances: Improving difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort: Easing pain during intercourse and general discomfort.
• Reduced libido: Helping to restore your sex drive.
• Joint aches and stiffness: Alleviating discomfort in your joints.
• Brain fog: Improving concentration, memory, and mental clarity.
• Fatigue and low energy: Boosting your overall energy levels.

There are various types of HRT, and the best choice for you will be tailored to your individual health needs and medical history. The main categories include:

• Oestrogen-only HRT: Typically prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy (womb removed).
• Combined HRT (oestrogen and progestogen): Recommended for women who still have their womb. The progestogen is included to protect the womb lining from thickening. HRT can be taken in different forms for your convenience, such as tablets, skin patches, gels, or sprays. Our online doctors will discuss these options with you to find the most suitable and effective delivery method for your lifestyle.

Determining the best HRT treatment for you is a personalised process. Our GMC-registered doctors conduct a thorough online consultation, considering your specific symptoms, medical history, family history, and preferences. They will then recommend the most appropriate type, dose, and form of HRT to help you manage your menopause symptoms effectively and safely.

Yes, many women find relief from menopause symptoms through lifestyle adjustments, either alongside or as an alternative to HRT:

• Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support overall wellbeing. Some find avoiding triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, or alcohol can reduce hot flushes.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can significantly improve mood, sleep quality, and bone health.
• Stress management: Techniques like yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing can help with anxiety and mood swings.
• Cooling strategies: Wearing layers, using fans, and drinking cool drinks can help manage hot flushes and night sweats.
• Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants: These can provide effective relief for vaginal dryness and discomfort.
• Herbal remedies and supplements: Some women explore options such as black cohosh or red clover. It's crucial to discuss these with a healthcare professional, as their effectiveness and safety can vary, and they may interact with other medications.

While HRT directly addresses hormone levels, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, is always beneficial for overall health and wellbeing during menopause. Certain dietary choices can complement your HRT by supporting bone health, managing weight, and improving mood. Our service can provide general lifestyle advice to help you make informed dietary choices.

Yes, you can safely and conveniently access HRT treatment online in the UK through regulated services like PrivateDoc. Our platform connects you with experienced UK-registered doctors who can assess your eligibility and prescribe appropriate HRT medication, delivered directly to your home.

Our online HRT prescription service is designed for your convenience and discretion. The process typically involves:

• Online consultation: You'll complete a comprehensive and confidential medical questionnaire about your symptoms and health history.
• Clinical review: A UK-based clinician will thoroughly review your information to determine if HRT is suitable and safe for you.
• Prescription and delivery: If approved, a private prescription will be issued. Your medication can then be discreetly delivered to your UK address or made available for collection at a local pharmacy.
• Ongoing support: We offer follow-up consultations and support to monitor your progress, adjust your treatment if needed, and answer any questions you may have.

Yes, when you choose a reputable and regulated online service, getting HRT online in the UK is both safe and reliable. To ensure your safety and peace of mind, always choose a service that:

• Is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England (or the equivalent regulatory body in other UK nations).
• Employs fully GMC-registered doctors or NMC regulated Advanced Nurse Practitioners.
• Requires a comprehensive medical assessment before prescribing any medication. Your wellbeing is our top priority, and all prescriptions are issued by qualified UK clinicians following strict medical guidelines.

We encourage open communication with your NHS GP about your health and any treatments you are receiving because it’s best for your safety.

The time it takes for HRT to start working can vary for everyone, but many women begin to feel significant improvements in their symptoms within a few weeks of starting treatment. Full benefits, particularly for symptoms like bone density and vaginal dryness, may take a few months. Our clinicians will monitor your progress and can adjust your treatment if needed to ensure optimal results.

Starting your online HRT programme with us is a simple and supportive process. Begin by completing our confidential online medical questionnaire. This will then be thoroughly reviewed by our UK-registered clinicians. If HRT is deemed suitable for you, you'll receive a personalised treatment plan, and your prescribed medication can be discreetly delivered straight to your door.

Generally, private medical insurance in the UK typically does not cover the cost of prescription HRT medications themselves, as these are usually paid for out-of-pocket. However, some policies might cover the cost of private consultations with specialists. We recommend checking directly with your specific insurance provider for their policy on menopause treatments.

Both private online services and the NHS provide access to HRT in the UK, but there are some key differences:

• Access and waiting times: Private services often offer quicker access to consultations and prescriptions compared to potentially longer waiting lists within the NHS.
• Choice and personalisation: While the NHS provides excellent care, private services might offer a broader range of HRT types or formulations, allowing for more tailored treatment based on your individual needs.
• Cost: NHS HRT prescriptions are subject to standard NHS prescription charges (or are free if you have an exemption or a prepayment certificate). Private online services involve a fee for the consultation and the cost of the private prescription.
• Convenience: Online private services offer the convenience of consultations and medication delivery from home. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal circumstances, urgency, and preference for direct access to specific treatments.