The campaign group, which is one of the stakeholders involved in the consultation, have proposed a series of changes to the guidance.
The submission says: “There is far too much emphasis on the risks of HRT and not enough on the benefits. The benefits of HRT are generally considered to outweigh the risks for the majority of women and this is not reflected.”
“Although CBT has its place, it is unrealistic to think it could be offered to the entire peri and menopausal population, and it is not an alternative to HRT,” it adds.
The submission also says: “More consideration and detail needs to be given to testosterone, to lifestyle changes (that will benefit all women) and to those experiencing premature or surgical menopause.”
Dr Clare Spencer, a menopause specialist, said it was critical that the final guidance took a “balanced overview” of the benefits and risks of hormone therapy.
She said: “While for most women HRT is the most effective treatment for menopause symptoms, the guidelines, as currently drafted, place considerably more emphasis on the risks rather than the benefits.”
The GP said the guidelines needed to be clearer in clarifying which symptoms CBT could assist with.
And she said the guidelines “do not detail the full spectrum of symptoms and the language used does not adequately reflect the breadth and depth of their impact on quality of life”.
‘Personalised approach’
A spokesman for Nice said: “The draft guidance makes clear that it is important that healthcare practitioners take a personalised approach when discussing treatment options, tailored to individual circumstances.”
He said the draft recommendations were based on the latest available evidence agreed by an independent committee which included specialist consultants, GPs, menopause nurses and a range of patient experts.
He said: “We know there are strong views, and we welcome constructive challenges and a broad range of views as part of our consultation on this draft, which is open until 5 January 2024.”
“New evidence shows that CBT can help reduce menopause symptoms including hot flushes and night sweats, depressive symptoms and problems sleeping. The draft guidance makes it clear that CBT could be considered alongside or as an alternative to HRT and sets out the risks and benefits of different treatment options so people can work with their healthcare practitioner to agree what works best for their particular needs.”
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
