Surgical menopause: A toolkit for healthcare professionals

Surgical menopause (bilateral oophorectomy) is commonly undertaken during a hysterectomy to treat various medical conditions. Menopausal symptoms can be particularly severe due to the sudden loss of ovarian function. This clinical toolkit is intended to guide healthcare professionals caring for women undergoing surgical menopause. Women commonly experience vasomotor symptoms, sexual dysfunction and an increased risk of cardiovascular and osteoporotic disease. Compared with a natural menopause, loss of libido can be more pronounced following a surgical menopause. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) plays a significant role in managing surgical menopause, especially in women aged under 45 years old. All women undergoing surgical menopause should have adequate counselling regarding the hormonal consequences of surgery and the role of HRT with a view to provide individualised, patient-centred care.