Menopause & HRT in Ireland — A Practical Guide (2026)
A clear guide to perimenopause and menopause in Ireland, the modern HRT options, risks and benefits, and how to access care.
Perimenopause vs menopause
Perimenopause is the transition phase — typically starting in the mid-40s — when hormone levels fluctuate and periods become irregular. Menopause is reached when periods have stopped for 12 consecutive months. Symptoms can persist for years after the final period.
Common symptoms
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Sleep disturbance, fatigue, brain fog
- Mood changes — anxiety, low mood, irritability
- Joint and muscle aches
- Vaginal dryness, urinary symptoms, sexual discomfort
Modern HRT options
- Oestrogen — patches, gels, sprays preferred over oral for VTE risk profile
- Progestogen — micronised progesterone (body-identical) is the modern preferred form
- Testosterone — sometimes added for libido / energy in carefully selected cases
- Vaginal oestrogen — local low-dose, suitable for almost everyone with genitourinary symptoms
Risks and benefits
For most women starting HRT under age 60 within 10 years of menopause, benefits outweigh risks. Risks (small absolute increases in breast cancer, VTE) depend on the formulation, route, and duration. We discuss these in depth before initiation.
What if HRT is not right for you
SSRIs/SNRIs can help vasomotor symptoms; CBT for mood and sleep; vaginal moisturisers and pelvic-floor physiotherapy for genitourinary symptoms.
Accessing HRT through an Online Doctor
Initial consultation, blood pressure, personal/family history review, prescription, and 3-month follow-up. €34.99 per consultation; medication separate via pharmacy.
FAQs
Do I need bloods to start HRT?
Will HRT cause weight gain?
How long can I stay on HRT?
Is body-identical HRT the same as compounded?
Cost of consultation?
Speak to an Online Doctor
Same-day video and phone consultations across Ireland, €34.99.