A new government drive will bring menopause advice to the heart of free NHS health checks, helping millions of women get the care and support they deserve.
For the very first time nationally, questions about menopause will be included in NHS Health Checks — the free assessments offered every five years to eligible adults aged 40 to 74. This means nearly five million women will soon be able to discuss menopause symptoms with their healthcare providers during a routine appointment, making it easier to spot concerns early and get the right help.
Too often, women’s experiences of menopause are overlooked or misunderstood—symptoms mistaken for stress or other health conditions. This initiative is a landmark shift, bringing menopause into everyday healthcare conversations, delivering on the government’s Plan for Change to build an NHS fit for the future.
Wes Streeting, Health and Social Care Secretary, put it simply: “Women have been suffering in silence for far too long… No one should have to grit their teeth and just get on with what can be debilitating symptoms or be told that it’s simply part of life. This government is overhauling women’s healthcare and giving those experiencing menopause and perimenopause the visibility and support they have long been asking for.”
NHS Health Checks traditionally focus on risks like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and dementia. Now, by adding menopause, they will also raise awareness of symptoms and give women the confidence to seek support — directing them to services, information, and treatment options designed to provide relief.
This is a crucial step in women’s healthcare, empowering clinicians to recognise and address symptoms that often go unspoken, ensuring women feel heard and supported during what can be a challenging life phase.
Questions for the health checks will be developed with expert input in the coming months.
Menopause affects women differently, most commonly between ages 45 and 55, though symptoms can start earlier during perimenopause. Around 75% of women experience symptoms such as hot flushes, joint pain, weight gain, memory issues, and brain fog, often lasting seven years or more. Yet fewer than one in ten feel they have enough information to manage these changes effectively.*
Dr Sue Mann, NHS England’s National Clinical Director for Women’s Health, said: “Far too often we still hear women say their concerns aren’t listened to or that they aren’t getting enough support for debilitating menopause symptoms. We want to change that… No one should have to put on a brave face or feel they are facing symptoms of menopause or perimenopause on their own. This shows our commitment to improving treatment, care and quality of life for women.”
Mariella Frostrup, Menopause Employment Ambassador, added: “Including menopause as a key part of the NHS 40+ Health Check is a major leap forward. When women understand their biology and midlife changes, they’re better equipped to care for their health and careers. It’s good for women, good for the economy, and good for employers who want to retain talent.”
Professor Ranee Thakar, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, commented: “It is fantastic news that menopause conversations will now be routine in NHS Health Checks. This will break down stigma, help women from diverse communities access support, and improve healthcare through excellent training for healthcare assistants. Women’s Health Hubs are great places to make this support personal and impactful.”
Dame Lesley Regan, Women’s Health Ambassador, reflected: “Some 400,000 women in the UK will become menopausal this year, but most have very little knowledge about the symptoms they may face. Providing all girls and women with information and supportive healthcare is vital so they are not disadvantaged by treatable symptoms. When we get it right for women, everyone benefits.”
This menopause initiative is part of broader government efforts to improve women’s health, including reducing gynaecology waiting lists, advancing cervical cancer elimination plans, and new rules ensuring persistent symptoms get a proper diagnosis.
By integrating menopause into NHS Health Checks, the government is making vital progress towards a more personalised, preventative healthcare system that truly supports women through all stages of life.
*According to NICE, over 75% of women experience menopausal symptoms, and a third report long-term symptoms lasting seven years or longer. Fewer than 1 in 10 women feel well-informed about menopause management.
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