Book a PMDD consultation at Bristol Menopause Clinic. Specialist assessment and personalised treatment plans for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder in Bristol. PMDD Initial Consultation Package Overview | £245 45minute Initial Consultation Our expert PMDD consultation service is designed to provide specialised advice and tailored support for managing Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). This comprehensive consultation will help you understand your condition, address your concerns, and receive guidance on managing symptoms and improving your overall well-being. In-Depth Consultation with an Experienced Women’s Health Doctor A thorough, one-on-one discussion with a specialist to assess your symptoms, health history, and concerns, including severe mood changes, emotional distress, cycle-related anxiety, sleep disturbances, and hormonal fluctuations. Personalised Health Plan Following an assessment of your symptoms and lifestyle, our specialist will provide tailored recommendations on managing PMDD, including lifestyle strategies, nutrition, hormone balance, psychological support, and potential medical treatments. Private Prescribing (if required) If appropriate, the doctor may offer private prescriptions for hormonal treatments, mood stabilisers, or other supportive medications, ensuring you receive timely and effective care. Letter to Your GP A detailed letter outlining your consultation, diagnosis, and any recommendations will be sent to your GP to support continuity of care and ongoing management. Book here **Blue Light Card holders receive 15% off initial consultations; a valid card must be shown at the appointment.** Benefits: Expert Advice – Consult with an experienced doctor in managing PMDD and its associated symptoms. Personalised Care – Receive a tailored plan based on your unique health concerns and goals. Quick Access to Treatment – Benefit from private prescribing, reducing waiting times for necessary medications. Comprehensive Support – Address all aspects of PMDD, from hormonal balance and emotional health to lifestyle adjustments. Seamless Communication with Your GP – Ensure your GP is informed and involved in your long-term management. Confidential and Supportive Environment – Discuss your symptoms in a private, compassionate setting where your concerns are heard. Book Your Consultation Today Take control of your PMDD with expert guidance and evidence-based care. Contact us to schedule your initial consultation with an experienced PMDD specialist. £245 Please note: In line with our policy, you are unable to book with a doctor who is your registered GP or a GP at the practice where you are currently registered. This includes Dr Jo Burgin (Bridgeview Medical Practice) and Dr Danielle Calandrini (Newbridge Surgery). Thank you for your understanding. Book here

< Back Why Women Lose Iron: The Hidden Signs of Iron Deficiency and How to Restore Your Energy Naturally Discover the hidden signs of iron deficiency in women, why ferritin matters more than haemoglobin, and how iron testing, supplementation, and iron infusions can help restore energy and wellbeing. Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in women, yet it remains one of the most frequently overlooked causes of fatigue, hair loss, brain fog, and poor wellbeing. Many women are told their blood tests are "normal" despite experiencing symptoms that significantly affect their quality of life. The reason? Often, the wrong blood test has been used. We regularly see women struggling with symptoms of low iron levels who have never had their iron stores properly assessed. In this article, we'll explain: Why standard blood tests can miss iron deficiency The symptoms of low ferritin in women Why perimenopausal and menopausal women are particularly at risk How our Iron Health Programme investigates iron properly When iron supplementation or iron infusion therapy may be appropriate Why Standard Iron Tests Often Miss Iron Deficiency Many people believe that checking iron levels means measuring haemoglobin. While haemoglobin is important, it only tells part of the story. Haemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying protein found within red blood cells. When haemoglobin falls below a certain level, anaemia is diagnosed. However, by the time this happens, iron stores may have been depleted for months or even years. The Importance of Ferritin Ferritin is the body's iron storage protein and provides a much clearer picture of your iron reserves. You can have: ✅ Normal haemoglobin❌ Low ferritin❌ Significant symptoms This condition is known as iron deficiency without anaemia , and it is incredibly common in women. Many laboratories use wide reference ranges and only flag ferritin when levels become extremely low. However, many women experience symptoms long before reaching these thresholds. Symptoms of Low Ferritin in Women Low iron stores can affect almost every system in the body. Common symptoms include: Persistent Fatigue Feeling exhausted despite getting enough sleep is often one of the earliest signs. Brain Fog and Poor Concentration Difficulty focusing, remembering information, or finding the right words can occur when iron stores are depleted. Hair Loss and Hair Thinning Research suggests ferritin levels below 40 µg/L are associated with increased hair shedding and reduced hair density. Breathlessness Women may notice they become short of breath climbing stairs or exercising, even when they were previously fit and active. Low Mood and Anxiety Iron is involved in the production of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that influence mood, motivation, and mental wellbeing. Other Symptoms Restless legs Palpitations Cold hands and feet Brittle nails Pale skin Reduced exercise performance Why Women Are More Likely to Develop Iron Deficiency Heavy Periods and Menstrual Blood Loss The most common cause of iron deficiency in women is blood loss through menstruation. Women with: Heavy periods Flooding Fibroids Adenomyosis Perimenopausal bleeding changes can lose iron faster than it can be replaced through diet. Perimenopause and Iron Deficiency During perimenopause, hormonal fluctuations can lead to: Heavier periods Longer periods More frequent cycles Over time, this can significantly deplete iron stores. Dietary Factors Women following vegetarian or vegan diets may be at increased risk because plant-based iron is less easily absorbed than iron from animal sources. Absorption can also be reduced by: Tea and coffee Calcium supplements Certain medications Coeliac disease Helicobacter pylori infection Iron Deficiency and Menopause: Why Symptoms Can Be Confused One of the biggest challenges is that low ferritin symptoms often overlap with menopause symptoms. Both can cause: Fatigue Brain fog Poor concentration Low mood Hair changes Reduced motivation This means iron deficiency may be missed or wrongly attributed solely to hormonal changes. At Bristol Health Hub, we frequently assess both hormone health and iron status to ensure important deficiencies are not overlooked. How We Assess Iron Properly Our Iron Health Programme is designed to identify iron deficiency accurately and provide a personalised treatment plan. Blood Tests Included We assess: Ferritin Full Blood Count (FBC) Active B12 Thyroid Function Tests C-Reactive Protein (CRP) This allows us to understand the full picture rather than relying on haemoglobin alone. What Is an Optimal Ferritin Level? While laboratory ranges vary, many women report feeling significantly better when ferritin levels reach: 70–100 µg/L At this level many women experience improvements in: Energy Concentration Exercise tolerance Hair health Mood Our goal is not simply to prevent anaemia but to optimise wellbeing. Treatment Options for Low Iron: Iron Supplements Many women benefit from iron bisglycinate, which is often gentler on the stomach than traditional iron preparations. To improve absorption: Take with Vitamin C Avoid tea and coffee around supplementation Separate from calcium supplements Take away from thyroid medication Dietary Support We help women increase iron intake through practical dietary strategies and identify potential absorption issues where appropriate. Addressing the Underlying Cause Simply replacing iron is not enough. We also investigate: Heavy menstrual bleeding Perimenopausal hormone changes Dietary factors Gastrointestinal causes Medication effects When Is an Iron Infusion Recommended? For some women, oral iron supplements are not enough. An iron infusion may be considered when: Ferritin is significantly depleted Symptoms are severe Oral iron is poorly tolerated Absorption is impaired Faster replenishment is required Our clinician-led Iron Infusion Treatment Package combines: Advanced blood testing Iron sucrose infusion therapy Follow-up blood testing Nutritional support Ongoing monitoring This provides a comprehensive approach to restoring iron levels safely and effectively. Frequently Asked Questions About Iron Deficiency Can I Have Low Iron Without Anaemia? Yes. Iron deficiency without anaemia is extremely common and can cause significant symptoms even when haemoglobin levels remain normal. What Ferritin Level Causes Symptoms? Symptoms can occur at various levels, but many women report fatigue, hair loss, and brain fog when ferritin falls below 50 µg/L. Can Low Iron Cause Anxiety? Low ferritin may contribute to anxiety, low mood, reduced resilience, and poor concentration due to its role in neurotransmitter production. Can Menopause Cause Low Iron? Menopause itself does not cause iron deficiency, but the heavy and irregular bleeding often experienced during perimenopause can significantly deplete iron stores. Take the Next Step If you're struggling with persistent fatigue, brain fog, hair loss, low mood, or breathlessness and have been told your blood tests are "normal", it may be time to take a closer look at your iron stores. Our Iron Health Programme and Iron Infusion Service are designed to identify the root cause of your symptoms and create a personalised plan to help restore your energy, vitality, and wellbeing. Book Your Iron Health Assessment Today Discover whether low ferritin could be the missing piece of your health puzzle and take the first step towards feeling like yourself again. Book here Get in Touch If you would like a personal Wellwoman Check, or are suffering from any of the symptoms of the menopause and would like to learn more, please head to our contact page to book an appointment. You'll be so glad you did! Contact Us

< Back Histamine Intolerance in Menopause – What’s Going on and How to Feel Better Diet, Managing Symptoms, Menopause Advice Ever noticed that certain foods suddenly make you feel flushed, itchy, or bloated during menopause? Maybe you’re experiencing weird headaches, sinus congestion, or even palpitations that seem to come out of nowhere. If this sounds familiar, histamine intolerance could be playing a role in your symptoms. Let’s break it down, what’s happening, why menopause can make histamine issues worse, and what you can do to feel better. Many women don’t realise they are suffering with it and end cutting out whole food groups to try to feel better. What is Histamine Intolerance? Histamine is a natural chemical involved in your immune system, digestion, and brain function. It’s released by certain foods, gut bacteria, and even your own body when you have an allergic reaction. Normally, an enzyme called diamine oxidase (DAO) helps break histamine down, so it doesn’t build up. But if your body struggles to process histamine efficiently, you might start experiencing symptoms like: Flushing or skin redness Runny nose or congestion Headaches or migraines Bloating, nausea, or IBS-type symptoms Anxiety or heart palpitations Menstrual irregularities (before menopause) Why Does Menopause Make Histamine Intolerance Worse? Blame it on hormones! Specifically, oestrogen plays a big role in histamine regulation. Oestrogen can trigger the release of histamine from mast cells and at the same time reduces DAO , the enzyme that helps clear it out. In perimenopause and menopause, as oestrogen levels fluctuate wildly, this can lead to histamine build up and all those unpleasant symptoms. To make matters trickier, progesterone (which has a calming, anti-inflammatory effect) also drops in menopause, making histamine issues even worse. The result? You might find yourself suddenly reacting to foods, drinks, and even your environment in ways you never did before. How Can You Manage Histamine Intolerance in Menopause? The good news? There are plenty of ways to reduce histamine load and support your body’s ability to process it. Here are the key strategies: 1. Be Smart About Food Choices Certain foods are high in histamine or block the breakdown of histamine, so cutting back on these might help: High-Histamine Foods to Watch Out For Aged cheeses (sorry!) Red wine and champagne Fermented foods (yogurt, kombucha, kimchi, soy sauce) Cured meats (salami, bacon, prosciutto) Tomatoes and avocados Spinach and eggplant Vinegar-based condiments (mustard, ketchup, pickles) Histamine-Friendly Foods Fresh meats and poultry Leafy greens (except spinach) Fresh fruits like apples, pears, and blueberries Gluten-free grains like rice and quinoa Herbal teas (peppermint, rooibos) 2. Support DAO Enzyme Activity Since DAO is responsible for breaking down histamine, boosting its activity can be a game-changer. Here’s how: 🔹 Supplements That Help: DAO Enzyme Supplements – These can be taken before meals to help break down histamine in food. Vitamin C – A natural antihistamine that supports mast cell stability. Vitamin B6 – Helps DAO function properly. Magnesium – Helps regulate histamine release. Quercetin – A natural flavonoid that calms histamine release (found in onions, apples, and supplements). 3. Balance Your Hormones Since the histamine-oestrogen connection is so strong, hormone balance is key. HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) – Some women find that HRT helps stabilise histamine-related symptoms, especially if progesterone is included (which has anti-inflammatory effects). Natural Hormone Support – Managing stress, eating a whole-food diet, and ensuring good sleep can support healthy hormone levels. It is often helpful to take antihistamines if you are really struggling. These can help reduce the symptoms of histamine intolerance, but it is important to be careful not to take long term. 4. Improve Gut Health A big chunk of histamine regulation happens in the gut. If your digestion is off, histamine build up can be worse. Probiotics – But Choose Wisely! Some probiotics (like Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus bulgaricus) actually produce histamine, while others (like Bifidobacterium infantis and Bifidobacterium longum) help break it down. Look for low-histamine probiotics. Digestive Enzymes – Supporting digestion can help your body handle histamine better. Reduce Alcohol and Processed Foods – These can worsen histamine issues and gut inflammation. 5. Lifestyle Adjustments That Help Stay Hydrated – Dehydration makes histamine symptoms worse. Exercise in Moderation – Intense workouts can trigger histamine release, but gentle activities like yoga, walking, or swimming can help regulate it. Reduce Stress – Stress triggers histamine release! Try mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Histamine intolerance can be a sneaky but significant issue during menopause. If you’re struggling with unexpected symptoms, it’s worth considering whether histamine is a factor. By making dietary changes, supporting DAO activity, balancing hormones, and improving gut health , you can reduce your symptoms and start feeling more like yourself again. Get in Touch If you would like a personal Wellwoman Check, or are suffering from any of the symptoms of the menopause and would like to learn more, please head to our contact page to book an appointment. You'll be so glad you did! Contact Us

Women’s Health Contact UK, Expert Women’s Health Advice, Nationwide Appointment Booking, Personalised Women’s Health Support, Women’s Wellness Contact, Online Women’s Health Consultation Contact Us Low Barn, Sheepway, Portbury, Bristol, BS20 7TF 0117 452 5747 hello@bristolmenopause.com First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thanks for submitting!

< Back Breast Cancer & Midlife: Why Stress and Lifestyle Matter More Than You Think Cardiovascular Advice, Diet, Managing Symptoms, Managing Weight, Menopause Advice, Mental Health, Self-Care, Wellbeing, Stress As women reach midlife, we face a perfect storm, hormonal change, busy lives, and rising health demands. It’s no coincidence that this is also when breast cancer risk begins to increase. But here’s the empowering truth: our daily choices can make a real difference. The Stress Connection Chronic stress isn’t just emotional, it’s biochemical . When cortisol and adrenaline stay high, they: Disrupt immune function and oestrogen metabolism Drive inflammation and fatigue Make it harder to maintain healthy habits Midlife often means juggling everything : careers, ageing parents, children, and our own health. But even small acts of self-care walking, breathing deeply, spending time outdoors, saying “no” when needed help to reset the nervous system and support hormonal balance. Stress won’t “cause” breast cancer, but it can tip the balance in the wrong direction if left unchecked. Prioritising calm is not indulgent, it’s protective . Lifestyle as Medicine Lifestyle is our most powerful prevention tool. Move regularly, aim for 150 minutes/week of moderate exercise + strength work. Eat mostly plants, oily fish, wholegrains, and minimise ultra-processed foods. Limit alcohol, even small amounts raise oestrogen levels. Maintain a healthy weight post-menopause, body fat produces oestrogen. Prioritise sleep and meaningful connection, both lower stress hormones. These choices don’t have to be perfect; they just need to be consistent . Each decision shifts your biology towards balance and resilience. A Message of Empowerment We can’t control everything, not our age or genes but we can influence the environment our cells live in. Supporting stress recovery, nourishing our bodies, and making informed decisions about HRT are all part of living well through menopause and beyond. Midlife isn’t a decline, it’s a redesign . Get in Touch If you would like a personal Wellwoman Check, or are suffering from any of the symptoms of the menopause and would like to learn more, please head to our contact page to book an appointment. You'll be so glad you did! Contact Us

POI follow-up consultations with specialist doctors. Review hormone therapy, monitor long-term health and optimise personalised care. POI Follow Up Consultation Package Overview | £165 30-Minute Follow-Up If you've already had your initial POI consultation, this follow-up appointment is designed to monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan, and ensure you're receiving the right support for managing your symptoms and long-term health. Progress Review A detailed check-in to assess how you've been feeling since your initial consultation. We’ll review: Symptom changes and how they are impacting your daily life. Effectiveness of any treatments, including HRT and lifestyle modifications. Bone and heart health concerns, ensuring proactive prevention and management. Emotional well-being and psychological support needs. Treatment Adjustments if Necessary Based on your progress and feedback, we’ll refine your treatment plan—whether that involves: Adjustments to hormonal therapy (HRT) or other medications. Nutritional and lifestyle modifications for long-term well-being. Additional psychological or emotional support strategies. Further investigations or specialist referrals if needed. Ongoing Support and Expert Advice We provide ongoing guidance on any new or persistent concerns, including: Hormonal fluctuations and symptom management. Bone density and cardiovascular health support. Coping strategies for emotional and psychological well-being. Private Prescribing (if needed) If necessary, we can adjust your medications or prescribe additional treatments to ensure you receive the right ongoing support without unnecessary delays. Letter to Your GP A summary letter will be sent to your GP, outlining your progress and any treatment adjustments, ensuring continuity of care and collaboration with your healthcare team. Book here Benefits Ongoing Specialist Support – Continue working with a POI expert who understands your unique health journey. Tailored Treatment Adjustments – Your plan is refined to ensure the most effective management of POI. Confidence and Clarity – Regular reviews help you stay on track and proactively manage your health. Seamless Communication with Your GP – Your treatment plan is shared with your GP for coordinated care. Private and Supportive Environment – A safe space to discuss any concerns and receive expert guidance. Book Your Follow-Up Appointment Today Ensure your POI management remains effective and personalised. Schedule your follow-up consultation to stay in control of your health with expert support. Would you like any additional focus on fertility, symptom relief, or lifestyle management? £165 Please note: In line with our policy, you are unable to book with a doctor who is your registered GP or a GP at the practice where you are currently registered. This includes Dr Jo Burgin (Bridgeview Medical Practice) and Dr Danielle Calandrini (Newbridge Surgery). Thank you for your understanding. Book here

Struggling with severe PMS or PMDD? Bristol Menopause Clinic provides specialist diagnosis, hormone guidance, and tailored treatment plans to support mood and menstrual health. PMDD Follow Up Consultation Package Overview | £165 30-Minute Follow-Up If you've already had your initial PMDD consultation, this follow-up appointment is designed to monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan, and ensure you're effectively managing your symptoms. Progress Review A detailed check-in to assess how you've been feeling since your initial consultation. We'll review symptom changes, treatment effectiveness, and any lifestyle modifications you've implemented. Treatment Adjustments if Necessary Based on your progress and feedback, we’ll refine your treatment plan—whether it involves medication adjustments, dietary and lifestyle changes, psychological support, or further investigations. Ongoing Support and Advice Receive expert guidance on any new or persistent concerns, including hormonal fluctuations, mood stability, sleep disturbances, emotional well-being, and coping strategies. Private Prescribing (if needed) If necessary, we can adjust your medications or prescribe additional treatments to ensure you receive the right support without unnecessary delays. Letter to Your GP A summary letter will be sent to your GP, outlining your progress and any treatment adjustments, ensuring continuity of care and collaboration with your healthcare team. Book here Benefits: Ongoing Specialist Support – Continue working with a PMDD expert who understands your unique health journey. Tailored Treatment Adjustments – Your plan will be refined to ensure the most effective management of your symptoms. Confidence and Clarity – Regular reviews help you stay on track and proactively manage your PMDD. Seamless Communication with Your GP – Your treatment plan is shared with your GP for coordinated care. Private and Supportive Environment – A safe space to discuss any concerns and receive expert guidance. Book Your Follow-Up Appointment Today Ensure your PMDD management remains effective and personalised. Schedule your follow-up consultation to stay in control of your health with expert support. £165 Please note: In line with our policy, you are unable to book with a doctor who is your registered GP or a GP at the practice where you are currently registered. This includes Dr Jo Burgin (Bridgeview Medical Practice) and Dr Danielle Calandrini (Newbridge Surgery). Thank you for your understanding. Book here

< Back Surviving the Festive Season: One Simple Tool for Menopausal Women Menopause Advice, Mental Health, Wellbeing There is a simple yet powerful tool that can be your ally through this season: journalling. Ah, the festive season! A time of joy, celebration, and… sometimes, a touch of chaos. For women going through menopause, this time of year can bring its own unique set of challenges. Amidst the merriment and flurry of activities, managing symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings, and overwhelming emotions can feel like an uphill battle, never mind the never-ending to do list that seems to get longer every day. There is a simple yet powerful tool that can be your ally through this season: journalling. Yes, the act of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) can work wonders in navigating the rollercoaster of emotions and experiences that often accompany menopause through this period. Why Journalling? Imagine having a trustworthy confidant available 24/7, someone who listens without judgment and allows you to pour out your thoughts, fears, and triumphs. That’s what journalling offers – a safe space to express yourself freely. Emotional Release: Menopause can bring a whirlwind of emotions. Journalling provides an outlet to release these feelings, reducing stress and promoting emotional well-being. Clarity Amidst Chaos: With so much happening during the Christmas period, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Writing things down helps declutter the mind, allowing you to focus on what truly matters and can help sleep. Tracking Symptoms: Keeping a record of symptoms can provide valuable insights for you. It helps identify patterns and triggers, aiding in more effective management. How to Start Journalling? Getting started with journalling doesn’t require fancy stationary or prize-worthy prose. Here are some simple steps: Find Your Tool: Whether it’s a notebook, a digital document, or an app, choose a medium that feels comfortable for you. Set Aside Time: Carve out a few minutes each day. It could be in the morning with a cup of tea or at night before bed – whichever fits your routine. Write Freely: There are no rules! Let your thoughts flow without worrying about grammar or structure. You can jot down your day’s events, express feelings, or simply empty your mind. Surviving Christmas with Journalling As the holiday whirlwind ensues, here’s how journalling can help you feel calmer, and some questions to help start you off: Reflection: Take a moment each day to reflect on your experiences. What brought you joy? What triggered discomfort? What emotions arise when I think about Christmas gatherings or traditions? Writing these down provides clarity. Emotional Regulation: Feeling overwhelmed by family gatherings or shopping chaos? Use your journal as a tool to process these emotions. Self-Care Check-In: Amidst the festive frenzy, it’s easy to neglect self-care. Use your journal to prioritise yourself, noting down small acts of self-kindness. How can I ensure that I’m taking care of myself amidst all the festive hustle and bustle? Celebrating the Positives: What moments brought me joy or contentment today? Are there any new discoveries or experiences that have been particularly uplifting? Gratitude and Self-Appreciation: What am I grateful for today, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant? What positive aspects of myself or my journey through menopause can I acknowledge and appreciate? Feel free to choose one or more of these prompts each day to guide your journalling sessions. They can serve as a starting point to delve into your thoughts and emotions. Remember, it’s not about perfection in writing, but about embracing the power of self-expression and self-care. At Bristol Menopause Clinic , we advocate for holistic approaches to women's health. Journalling is just one of the many tools we recommend empowering women during this transformative phase of life. If you’d like more personalised guidance or information, don’t hesitate to reach out. Get in Touch If you would like a personal Wellwoman Check, or are suffering from any of the symptoms of the menopause and would like to learn more, please head to our contact page to book an appointment. You'll be so glad you did! Contact Us

< Back Bone Health Across Menopause: More Than Just Calcium Alternative Therapies, Exercise, Managing Symptoms, Self-Care, Wellbeing When we think about menopause, bone health might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But declining oestrogen levels can accelerate bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis especially in women over 50. Understanding Bone Loss Bone density naturally decreases with age, but the drop is more rapid in the first few years after menopause. Oestrogen helps maintain bone strength, so its loss can leave bones more fragile. Beyond Calcium: A Holistic Approach Vitamin D : Supports calcium absorption; get levels checked and supplement if needed. Protein : Essential for bone structure and muscle mass. Magnesium and K2 : Help in calcium regulation and bone metabolism. Lifestyle Tips Weight-bearing exercises (e.g., walking, Pilates, resistance training) Avoid smoking and limit alcohol Maintain a healthy weight Medical Options If your bone density is low, your doctor may discuss: Bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate) Selective oestrogen receptor modulators HRT (where appropriate and no contraindications) Bone density (DEXA) scans can help assess risk and guide treatment. Strong bones are built on more than calcium. Lifestyle choices, nutrient support, and appropriate therapy all play a vital role in staying strong and steady through menopause and beyond. Concerned about bone health in menopause? Book a consultation with Bristol Menopause Clinic and get proactive about your future wellbeing. Get in Touch If you would like a personal Wellwoman Check, or are suffering from any of the symptoms of the menopause and would like to learn more, please head to our contact page to book an appointment. You'll be so glad you did! Contact Us

Specialist menopause advice for women with a history of cancer. Personalised, evidence-based guidance to support symptoms and long-term health. Managing Menopause with a History of Breast Cancer Request a Menopause & Breast Cancer Guide Please take a moment to fill out the form. First Name Last Name Email I agree to be added to mailing list Submit Click here to download Menopause & Breast Cancer Guide

< Back Menopause & Migraine: Breaking the Silent Link Migraines are more than just headaches for many women, they can become an unrelenting burden that intensifies during the perimenopausal and menopausal years. Yet, the connection between hormonal changes and migraine is often under-acknowledged. Hormones & Headaches: What's the Connection? Oestrogen plays a critical role in regulating neurotransmitters involved in pain pathways. As oestrogen levels begin to fluctuate during perimenopause, some women experience an uptick in migraine frequency or severity. Conversely, others find their migraines improve after menopause when hormones stabilise at lower levels. Medication and Management If you're managing both menopause and migraine, it’s important to choose medications carefully. Some migraine treatments may interact with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), particularly if you have a history of aura migraines. For women with migraine with aura, transdermal oestrogen (via patch or gel) is often preferred over oral HRT due to a lower associated risk of blood clots. Non-hormonal options like magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and cognitive behavioural therapy for chronic pain may also be considered. Always consult your GP or menopause specialist before starting any treatment. Lifestyle Triggers Keeping a migraine diary can help identify triggers such as: Poor sleep Dehydration Caffeine or alcohol Stress or skipped meals Maintaining a regular sleep routine, staying hydrated, eating balanced meals, and managing stress can make a significant difference. When to Seek Specialist Advice If your migraines are worsening or affecting your quality of life, seek support. A menopause aware GP or neurologist can guide you through treatment options safely. Bottom Line: Migraines and menopause can go hand-in-hand, but with tailored care and awareness, you don’t have to suffer in silence. If you’re struggling with migraines during menopause, our specialist team at Bristol Menopause Clinic is here to help. Book a consultation with one of our experts today and take control of your health. Get in Touch If you would like a personal Wellwoman Check, or are suffering from any of the symptoms of the menopause and would like to learn more, please head to our contact page to book an appointment. You'll be so glad you did! Contact Us

Private GP services. Book longer appointments, same-week consultations and personalised care at Bristol Menopause Clinic. Private GP Services *Please note this does not include a menopause or woman's health consultation* Access Private GP Services with Our Partner, DutyDoctor We’ve teamed up with DutyDoctor, a trusted provider of GP services, to offer you fast and convenient access to same-day medical consultations, all delivered virtually for your ease. What You Can Expect "Dr Ahmed listens, is compassionate, extremely knowledgeable and is clear in his advice. Dr Ahmed goes the extra mile & I would highly recommend." Burton, 2025 Rapid access to experienced, GMC-registered doctor Appointment times that work around your schedule Online consultations from anywhere Discreet, professional, and efficient healthcare Same-day prescriptions when needed Whether you need quick medical advice, a prescription, a referral, or ongoing support, Dutydoc is here to provide personalised, high-quality care when you need it most. "Attention to detail and thorough, genuine concerns for medical needs. Thank you Dr and team for all your help Puri, 2025 Our Private GP Services We offer convenient, confidential, and accessible healthcare when you need it. Explore our range of services below, then book an appointment with one of our experienced GPs. *Please note this does not include a menopause or women's health consultation* Consultations £60 GP Video Consultations – Speak with a GP face-to-face via secure video call from the comfort of your home. GP Audio Consultations – Prefer a phone call? Our GPs are available for audio consultations too. Book Here *Please note this does not include a menopause or women's health consultation* Medical Documentation & Prescriptions £60 Prescriptions – Get private prescriptions issued quickly and sent to your preferred pharmacy. Sick / Fit Notes – Receive valid documentation for employers or schools following your consultation. Letter Requests – Need a medical letter for travel, work, or insurance? We’ve got you covered. Book Here *Please note this does not include a menopause or women's health consultation* Referrals & Further Care £60 Referrals for Lab Tests – We can refer you for a wide range of blood tests and diagnostic screenings. Referrals for Investigations – From imaging to specialist testing, we’ll help you get the answers you need. Referrals to Specialists – If further assessment is needed, we’ll provide fast-tracked referrals to trusted private specialists. Book Here What dutydoctor can treat Aches and pains Back pain, Joint pains, Osteoarthritis, Sciatica, Gout, Fibromyalgia. Allergies Hayfever, Hives, Rashes, Allergic reactions (mild). Ear, nose and throat Earache, Ear infection, Tonsillitis, Sinusitis, Nose bleeds, Sore throat Eye Issues Eye infections, Conjunctivitis, Blepharitis, Stye, Red eye, Dry eye. Gastrointestinal Heartburn, Stomach ache, Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Constipation Genitourinary Urinary tract infection (UTI), Kidney stones, Urinary urgency, Incontinence. Lifestyle General health & lifestyle advice, Smoking cessation advice, Alcohol-excess advice, Insomnia and sleep advice. Mental Health Emotional support, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Panic, Phobias, OCD. Neurological Tension headache, Cluster headache, Migraine, Menstrual headache, Pins and needles. Respiratory Coughs and Colds, Upper Respiratory Tract Infections, Bronchitis, Chest infections, Asthma, COPD, Bronchitis, Coronavirus advice (not antivirals). Scalp and hair Baldness (alopecia), Itchy scalp, Dandruff, Headlice, Psoriasis. Sexual health Contraception, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Herpes, Genital Warts, STI testing. Skin conditions Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis, Cellulitis, Ring worm, Moles, Athlete’s foot, Cold sores, Scabies, Insect bites. Dr Koyes Ahmed MBBS BSc (Hons) DRCOG MRCP(q) Dr Koyes Ahmed is an NHS GP and Urgent Care Doctor, qualifying in 2007 from St Bartholomew's and The Royal London Hospital, with an MBBS and BSc (Hons), and also has postgraduate diplomas in Child Health (DCH) and Obstetrics and Gynaecology (DRCOG), as well as a postgraduate certificate of completion of training (CCT) in General Practice (MRCGP). With an extensive background in Medicine, Dr Ahmed has twenty-four years of education, training and experience in healthcare, and has been a doctor for eighteen years, a GP for thirteen years and has worked in the NHS, the UK private sector (as a Regional Lead GP), and internationally (as a Medical Director) in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. In addition to the above, Dr Ahmed has been featured by the BBC, ITV and Sky News, as well as various other media outlets, and has participated in a number of NHS videos and campaigns.