Hastings mum leading efforts to change NHS menopause policy
Kate DysonAn East Sussex woman who was plunged into sudden menopause after surgery to remove both ovaries is leading efforts to change NHS policy in this area.
Kate Dyson, 44, from Hastings, had the operation six months ago after having a subtotal hysterectomy just over four years ago to remove her uterus – a procedure which leaves the cervix in place.
The mother-of-three says she was completely unprepared for the impact of surgical menopause, which is triggered by the removal of both ovaries.
“Honestly, it was like falling off a hormonal cliff,” she told BBC Radio Sussex.
“A few hours after the surgery I was home the same day. I was having hot flashes, confusion and the first night I woke up and I was completely sweaty,” she said.
Ms Dyson says she found the aftercare exasperating and says it is common for many women.
She said: “We are coming out without hormones, without warning and without support. In my discharge notes it simply said: “I can try combined HRT”. [hormone replacement therapy] if she wishes,” as if that suggests a glass of wine at the weekend.”
This experience inspired her to set up campaign group Surge Menopause, which aims to push the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to revolutionize its provision.
Menopause, a “one-stop shop”
Ms Dyson said: “We urge every woman facing ovarian removal to receive clear information about the impact of surgical menopause before surgery, further information about hormone therapy and automatic access to HRT when it is safe, as well as appropriate follow-up care that addresses the severity of symptoms experienced by women undergoing surgical menopause. »
According to a study by Newson Health and Dr Ceri Cashell, only 4.8% of 126 premenopausal women from three NHS hospitals who had surgery to remove both ovaries were subsequently given HRT.
This is despite the fact that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) and the British Menopause Society recommend HRT until the average age of natural menopause, around 51.
Ms Dyson herself created the Surge website with the aim of creating a “one stop shop” for all questions relating to surgical menopause.
Its main goal was to create a space where those affected could learn what life is like “in this whole new chapter of surgical menopause.”
A DHSC spokesperson said: “It is unacceptable that women are not receiving appropriate care and support after surgical menopause and the Health Secretary has made clear that we have inherited a broken NHS with too many women still subject to a system that does not listen to their experiences or understand their needs. »
The DHSC says it is taking action to tackle deficiencies in this area, including adding menopause advice to NHS health checks and reducing gynecology waiting lists.
