Supporting women through perimenopause in primary care

During the transition towards the menopause, many women will experience symptoms in a period known as perimenopause. The duration of this process and the severity of symptoms is highly variable but, for some, this can be severe enough to affect their wellbeing and quality of life. This article provides an overview of symptoms of perimenopause and treatment options, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, with the aim of equipping primary care nurses with the knowledge required to support patients going through this process. Induced menopause, premature ovarian insufficiency and differential diagnoses are also discussed.