Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
We've answered some of the questions we are most commonly asked below. If you can't find the information you're looking for, please don't hesitate to get in touch at info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk and we'll be happy to help.
General
Who will I see?
You’ll see Dr Jane Walker, a GP with 18 years’ experience and a special interest in women’s health. She’s a member of the British Menopause Society and holds the Diploma of the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare.
Who will I see?
You’ll see Dr Jane Walker, a GP with 18 years’ experience and a special interest in women’s health. She’s a member of the British Menopause Society and holds the Diploma of the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare.
Who will I see?
You’ll see Dr Jane Walker, a GP with 18 years’ experience and a special interest in women’s health. She’s a member of the British Menopause Society and holds the Diploma of the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare.
Are your appointments in person?
Yes. We believe the best menopause care happens face to face, with time to listen, examine where needed, and build a plan together. All appointments take place at Versorium Healthcare in Hurstpierpoint, near Brighton and Haywards Heath, with free parking on site.
Are your appointments in person?
Yes. We believe the best menopause care happens face to face, with time to listen, examine where needed, and build a plan together. All appointments take place at Versorium Healthcare in Hurstpierpoint, near Brighton and Haywards Heath, with free parking on site.
Are your appointments in person?
Yes. We believe the best menopause care happens face to face, with time to listen, examine where needed, and build a plan together. All appointments take place at Versorium Healthcare in Hurstpierpoint, near Brighton and Haywards Heath, with free parking on site.
Do you offer body identical hormone treatment?
Yes. Body identical hormones are regulated treatments that are chemically identical to the hormones your body produces naturally. They are supported by strong clinical evidence and recommended by the British Menopause Society.
The term “bioidentical hormones” is often used more loosely, for compounded or bespoke preparations that are not always regulated or standardised. Because their safety, quality and effectiveness can vary, they are not routinely recommended by UK menopause specialists.
Dr Walker has extensive experience in evidence-based menopause care, including body identical treatment. If you are currently using compounded bioidentical hormones, you are welcome to book a consultation to review your current treatment and discuss the evidence-based options available to you.
Do you offer body identical hormone treatment?
Yes. Body identical hormones are regulated treatments that are chemically identical to the hormones your body produces naturally. They are supported by strong clinical evidence and recommended by the British Menopause Society.
The term “bioidentical hormones” is often used more loosely, for compounded or bespoke preparations that are not always regulated or standardised. Because their safety, quality and effectiveness can vary, they are not routinely recommended by UK menopause specialists.
Dr Walker has extensive experience in evidence-based menopause care, including body identical treatment. If you are currently using compounded bioidentical hormones, you are welcome to book a consultation to review your current treatment and discuss the evidence-based options available to you.
Do you offer body identical hormone treatment?
Yes. Body identical hormones are regulated treatments that are chemically identical to the hormones your body produces naturally. They are supported by strong clinical evidence and recommended by the British Menopause Society.
The term “bioidentical hormones” is often used more loosely, for compounded or bespoke preparations that are not always regulated or standardised. Because their safety, quality and effectiveness can vary, they are not routinely recommended by UK menopause specialists.
Dr Walker has extensive experience in evidence-based menopause care, including body identical treatment. If you are currently using compounded bioidentical hormones, you are welcome to book a consultation to review your current treatment and discuss the evidence-based options available to you.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required to book an appointment with us - please use our online booking service to book an appointment directly with Dr Walker.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required to book an appointment with us - please use our online booking service to book an appointment directly with Dr Walker.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required to book an appointment with us - please use our online booking service to book an appointment directly with Dr Walker.
Will my insurance cover me?
Not usually. Most private medical insurance policies exclude menopause consultations. However, some health cash plans and a few insurers will reimburse part of the cost of a private consultation. We're happy to provide an itemised receipt so you can check with your provider and make a claim. Contact us if you wish to discuss this further: info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk
Will my insurance cover me?
Not usually. Most private medical insurance policies exclude menopause consultations. However, some health cash plans and a few insurers will reimburse part of the cost of a private consultation. We're happy to provide an itemised receipt so you can check with your provider and make a claim. Contact us if you wish to discuss this further: info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk
Will my insurance cover me?
Not usually. Most private medical insurance policies exclude menopause consultations. However, some health cash plans and a few insurers will reimburse part of the cost of a private consultation. We're happy to provide an itemised receipt so you can check with your provider and make a claim. Contact us if you wish to discuss this further: info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk
Do I need blood tests to diagnose menopause?
Most women do not require blood tests to diagnose menopause or perimenopause. Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms, age and menstrual history. Blood tests may be recommended in certain circumstances or where there is uncertainty about the diagnosis.
Do I need blood tests to diagnose menopause?
Most women do not require blood tests to diagnose menopause or perimenopause. Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms, age and menstrual history. Blood tests may be recommended in certain circumstances or where there is uncertainty about the diagnosis.
Do I need blood tests to diagnose menopause?
Most women do not require blood tests to diagnose menopause or perimenopause. Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms, age and menstrual history. Blood tests may be recommended in certain circumstances or where there is uncertainty about the diagnosis.
Bookings and Costs
How do I make a booking
You can book directly online with Dr Walker using our Pricing and Booking Page. No referral is needed.
If you have any difficulty booking, email info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk.
How do I make a booking
You can book directly online with Dr Walker using our Pricing and Booking Page. No referral is needed.
If you have any difficulty booking, email info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk.
How do I make a booking
You can book directly online with Dr Walker using our Pricing and Booking Page. No referral is needed.
If you have any difficulty booking, email info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk.
What will this cost?
A new patient menopause consultation is £280 (45 minutes) and a follow-up is £185 (30 minutes). A cervical smear appointment is £260 including laboratory fees, and the Women’s Health and Longevity Assessment is £370 (one hour).
Please visit our pricing page for full details of consultation fees, cervical screening appointments, women's health assessments and optional investigations.
What will this cost?
A new patient menopause consultation is £280 (45 minutes) and a follow-up is £185 (30 minutes). A cervical smear appointment is £260 including laboratory fees, and the Women’s Health and Longevity Assessment is £370 (one hour).
Please visit our pricing page for full details of consultation fees, cervical screening appointments, women's health assessments and optional investigations.
What will this cost?
A new patient menopause consultation is £280 (45 minutes) and a follow-up is £185 (30 minutes). A cervical smear appointment is £260 including laboratory fees, and the Women’s Health and Longevity Assessment is £370 (one hour).
Please visit our pricing page for full details of consultation fees, cervical screening appointments, women's health assessments and optional investigations.
Why do I need to complete a questionnaire before my first appointment?
We ask all patients to complete a short pre-appointment questionnaire so we can fully understand your symptoms, medical history, and priorities before your consultation. This helps us make the best use of your appointment time and ensures your assessment is as thorough and personalised as possible.
Why do I need to complete a questionnaire before my first appointment?
We ask all patients to complete a short pre-appointment questionnaire so we can fully understand your symptoms, medical history, and priorities before your consultation. This helps us make the best use of your appointment time and ensures your assessment is as thorough and personalised as possible.
Why do I need to complete a questionnaire before my first appointment?
We ask all patients to complete a short pre-appointment questionnaire so we can fully understand your symptoms, medical history, and priorities before your consultation. This helps us make the best use of your appointment time and ensures your assessment is as thorough and personalised as possible.
Why do I need to give you my card details?
We use a secure booking system (Carebit) which requires card details to confirm your appointment. This allows us to securely manage bookings, reduce missed appointments, and process any agreed fees such as consultations, follow-ups, or additional services in a clear and transparent way. Your payment details are stored securely and are not visible to the clinic in full.
Why do I need to give you my card details?
We use a secure booking system (Carebit) which requires card details to confirm your appointment. This allows us to securely manage bookings, reduce missed appointments, and process any agreed fees such as consultations, follow-ups, or additional services in a clear and transparent way. Your payment details are stored securely and are not visible to the clinic in full.
Why do I need to give you my card details?
We use a secure booking system (Carebit) which requires card details to confirm your appointment. This allows us to securely manage bookings, reduce missed appointments, and process any agreed fees such as consultations, follow-ups, or additional services in a clear and transparent way. Your payment details are stored securely and are not visible to the clinic in full.
Where are you and is there parking?
We’re at Versorium Healthcare in Hurstpierpoint, easily reached from the A23 and about 9 miles north of Brighton and Hove. There is free parking on site.
Where are you and is there parking?
We’re at Versorium Healthcare in Hurstpierpoint, easily reached from the A23 and about 9 miles north of Brighton and Hove. There is free parking on site.
Where are you and is there parking?
We’re at Versorium Healthcare in Hurstpierpoint, easily reached from the A23 and about 9 miles north of Brighton and Hove. There is free parking on site.
HRT and Treatment Options
Do you only offer HRT?
No. While Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is an important treatment option for many women, menopause care often includes lifestyle advice, non-hormonal treatments, preventative healthcare and support tailored to your individual needs.
Do you only offer HRT?
No. While Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is an important treatment option for many women, menopause care often includes lifestyle advice, non-hormonal treatments, preventative healthcare and support tailored to your individual needs.
Do you only offer HRT?
No. While Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is an important treatment option for many women, menopause care often includes lifestyle advice, non-hormonal treatments, preventative healthcare and support tailored to your individual needs.
Is HRT safe?
HRT is considered a safe and effective treatment for most women when used appropriately and monitored regularly. We follow current guidance from the British Menopause Society and use the lowest effective dose for symptom control. During your consultation, we will assess your personal risks and benefits to ensure treatment is suitable for you.
Is HRT safe?
HRT is considered a safe and effective treatment for most women when used appropriately and monitored regularly. We follow current guidance from the British Menopause Society and use the lowest effective dose for symptom control. During your consultation, we will assess your personal risks and benefits to ensure treatment is suitable for you.
Is HRT safe?
HRT is considered a safe and effective treatment for most women when used appropriately and monitored regularly. We follow current guidance from the British Menopause Society and use the lowest effective dose for symptom control. During your consultation, we will assess your personal risks and benefits to ensure treatment is suitable for you.
If I have had cancer, is HRT still an option?
This depends on your individual medical history and the type of cancer you have had. In some cases, HRT may be appropriate, while in others it may not be recommended. We will always review your history carefully and, where needed, work alongside your oncology or specialist team to consider the safest and most appropriate treatment options for you.
If I have had cancer, is HRT still an option?
This depends on your individual medical history and the type of cancer you have had. In some cases, HRT may be appropriate, while in others it may not be recommended. We will always review your history carefully and, where needed, work alongside your oncology or specialist team to consider the safest and most appropriate treatment options for you.
If I have had cancer, is HRT still an option?
This depends on your individual medical history and the type of cancer you have had. In some cases, HRT may be appropriate, while in others it may not be recommended. We will always review your history carefully and, where needed, work alongside your oncology or specialist team to consider the safest and most appropriate treatment options for you.
Can my NHS GP continue my HRT treatment?
In many cases, NHS GPs are happy to continue HRT treatment following a private menopause consultation. Where appropriate, we will provide recommendations and a summary letter to support continuity of care.
Can my NHS GP continue my HRT treatment?
In many cases, NHS GPs are happy to continue HRT treatment following a private menopause consultation. Where appropriate, we will provide recommendations and a summary letter to support continuity of care.
Can my NHS GP continue my HRT treatment?
In many cases, NHS GPs are happy to continue HRT treatment following a private menopause consultation. Where appropriate, we will provide recommendations and a summary letter to support continuity of care.
Cervical Screening
Is a smear test painful?
Most women experience mild discomfort rather than pain, although experiences vary. We aim to make your cervical screening appointment as comfortable and supportive as possible.
Is a smear test painful?
Most women experience mild discomfort rather than pain, although experiences vary. We aim to make your cervical screening appointment as comfortable and supportive as possible.
Is a smear test painful?
Most women experience mild discomfort rather than pain, although experiences vary. We aim to make your cervical screening appointment as comfortable and supportive as possible.
Can I have a smear test after menopause?
Yes. Cervical screening remains important after menopause depending on your age, screening history and individual circumstances.
After menopause, lower oestrogen levels can cause the cervical and vaginal tissues to become thinner and more delicate. In some cases, this can lead to an “inadequate” or insufficient sample during cervical screening.
To help improve comfort and the quality of the sample, we can offer vaginal oestrogen treatment beforehand where appropriate.
If you would like to discuss this prior to your appointment, please contact us and we will be happy to advise you info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk
Can I have a smear test after menopause?
Yes. Cervical screening remains important after menopause depending on your age, screening history and individual circumstances.
After menopause, lower oestrogen levels can cause the cervical and vaginal tissues to become thinner and more delicate. In some cases, this can lead to an “inadequate” or insufficient sample during cervical screening.
To help improve comfort and the quality of the sample, we can offer vaginal oestrogen treatment beforehand where appropriate.
If you would like to discuss this prior to your appointment, please contact us and we will be happy to advise you info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk
Can I have a smear test after menopause?
Yes. Cervical screening remains important after menopause depending on your age, screening history and individual circumstances.
After menopause, lower oestrogen levels can cause the cervical and vaginal tissues to become thinner and more delicate. In some cases, this can lead to an “inadequate” or insufficient sample during cervical screening.
To help improve comfort and the quality of the sample, we can offer vaginal oestrogen treatment beforehand where appropriate.
If you would like to discuss this prior to your appointment, please contact us and we will be happy to advise you info@hurstmenopauseclinic.co.uk
Can I have a smear test whilst on my period?
Yes, you can usually have a smear test during your period, but it’s best to avoid booking it if your bleeding is heavy. Light spotting is often fine, but heavier bleeding can sometimes make it harder to get clear results.
If you are unsure, it’s a good idea to contact us and we can help you decide whether to keep or reschedule your appointment.
Can I have a smear test whilst on my period?
Yes, you can usually have a smear test during your period, but it’s best to avoid booking it if your bleeding is heavy. Light spotting is often fine, but heavier bleeding can sometimes make it harder to get clear results.
If you are unsure, it’s a good idea to contact us and we can help you decide whether to keep or reschedule your appointment.
Can I have a smear test whilst on my period?
Yes, you can usually have a smear test during your period, but it’s best to avoid booking it if your bleeding is heavy. Light spotting is often fine, but heavier bleeding can sometimes make it harder to get clear results.
If you are unsure, it’s a good idea to contact us and we can help you decide whether to keep or reschedule your appointment.
How long does the appointment take?
Appointments are approximately 30 minutes, allowing time for discussion, questions and personalised care, although the smear test procedure itself usually only takes a few minutes.
How long does the appointment take?
Appointments are approximately 30 minutes, allowing time for discussion, questions and personalised care, although the smear test procedure itself usually only takes a few minutes.
How long does the appointment take?
Appointments are approximately 30 minutes, allowing time for discussion, questions and personalised care, although the smear test procedure itself usually only takes a few minutes.
Can I bring someone with me?
Of course. You are welcome to bring a partner, friend or family member for additional support during your appointment.
If you would like a chaperone present, please let us know before or during your cervical screening appointment and we will be happy to arrange this.
Can I bring someone with me?
Of course. You are welcome to bring a partner, friend or family member for additional support during your appointment.
If you would like a chaperone present, please let us know before or during your cervical screening appointment and we will be happy to arrange this.
Can I bring someone with me?
Of course. You are welcome to bring a partner, friend or family member for additional support during your appointment.
If you would like a chaperone present, please let us know before or during your cervical screening appointment and we will be happy to arrange this.
When will I receive my results?
Results are usually available within one week, often sooner. You will receive a detailed report explaining your cervical screening results and any recommended follow-up.
When will I receive my results?
Results are usually available within one week, often sooner. You will receive a detailed report explaining your cervical screening results and any recommended follow-up.
When will I receive my results?