Menopause expert warns against a “one size fits all” approach to symptom management

A menopause expert has warned that current “menopause care in the UK isn’t enough”, and “many women still think they have to just get on with it”. This comes following a new report which revealed 9.3 million women are struggling with “negative” or “bad” experiences. 

The State of Menopause Report was released by Platinum Spas, during Menopause Awareness Month and ahead fo World Menopause Day on 18th October 2025, with the theme this year being Lifestlye Medicine. The wellness brand conducted a survey of 1,001 women who are currently (or recently have been) experiencing perimenopause or menopause. 

Whilst the majority of women said that menopause awareness and care has improved over the past 10 years, there is still a long way to go - reflected in the 62% of survey respondents who describe their own menopause journey negatively. That’s a huge proportion of the 15 million women who are currently perimenopausal or menopausal in the UK (NHS data).

Treatments and support are lagging behind awareness 

Over two-thirds (77%) think that general awareness has improve over the last decade. Alongside steps forward in acknowledging the strain placed on a woman’s health (69%) and the combination fo both physical and mental symtpoms they expereience (67%). Yet, awareness alone isn’t enough. 

Over a third (35%), still admit that they have felt dismissed by thier GP when discussing symptoms and the impact on their daily life. Suggesting that this awareness still needs to turn into action.

Sarah Gilbertson, qualified Therapeutic Coach for Women in Midlife and Founder of FlourishWell Coaching said,

“Awareness is improving, but many women still think they have to just get on with it. We need care that considers the physical, mental and emotional aspects of menopause. Often this period of life coincides with children leaving home, caring for ageing parents, or other major life changes. So it's not just about hormones, it's about navigating multiple transitions at once. 

“When women are given space to understand what's happening and choose what genuinely helps them, this stage of life can become less about coping and more about moving forward with confidence.”

Demand for access to holistic treatments alongside care plans

Almost a third of people (32%) are now turning to holistic therapies to manage their menopause symptoms, as the research reveals widespread dissatisfaction with current treatment options and a call for a more integrated approach to care.

Nearly half (46%) believe that NHS treatment plans alone are insufficient: and whilst hormone replacement therapy (HRT) remains a vital lifeline for many, awareness of complementary approaches are increasing (awareness is up 59%). This includes supportive treatments such as, supplements, exercise, hydrotherapy and acupuncture.

In fact, almost three-quarters (72%) of survey respondents believe that doctors should be able to prescribe holistic or social-based treatments alongside medication such as HRT.

Sarah Gilbertson, Therapeutic Coach for Women in Midlife and Founder of FlourishWell Coaching adds, 

“Women need a range of options, both medical and holistic, so they can decide what's right for them. It's about choice and flexibility, not a one-size-fits-all plan.

“The most helpful therapies are the ones women enjoy and feel they can sustain. Yoga, Pilates and breathwork support the body and mind. Weight training builds strength and protects bone health. Journalling or mindfulness brings clarity. And hydrotherapy - from hot tubs to warm baths - can ease muscle tension and offer much-needed calm.”

For further information on Platinum Spas’ Menopause Awareness Month study, visit their online report.