Menopause hormone therapy: Demand rises but training gaps remain

Key Points:

• Rising awareness of menopause hormone therapy (MHT) benefits has led to increased demand in New Zealand, causing supply shortages and temporary rationing by Pharmac.
• Confidence in MHT has grown due to reassuring long-term data from the Women’s Health Initiative and other studies, along with more open discussions about menopause and its treatment.
• Despite updated clinical guidelines advocating personalized MHT use for symptom relief and bone health, many doctors lack training in menopause management, with menopause education absent in many medical curricula.
• New Zealand faces gaps in menopause research, particularly regarding women’s experiences, perimenopausal treatment, and contemporary MHT regimens, highlighting the need for local data and improved healthcare provider education.
• Efforts are underway in New Zealand to develop menopause care training for healthcare professionals and advocate for better-funded MHT options, aligning with the 2023 women’s health strategy focused on improving midlife women’s health.