Menopause and Perimenopause Care in Canary Wharf
Perimenopause can start years before your periods stop, and it doesn’t always look like the hot flushes people expect. Poor sleep, anxiety, brain fog, changing periods and aching joints are all common.
Our private menopause care in Canary Wharf gives you time to talk through what has changed, check whether another condition might be contributing, and discuss a plan that suits you, including whether HRT is appropriate.
Find us at 30 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf, London E14 5HX. No GP referral is needed.
Table of Contents
Your doctor
Dr Jesvina Dhatt, MBBS, MRCS (UK), MRCGP (UK), is a GMC-registered GP and a member of the British Menopause Society (BMS). Her clinical interests include women’s health, menopause and lifestyle medicine.
Read about her clinical background on the Dr Dhatt profile page. Appointment availability and consultation format should be confirmed via the booking service. For contraception, screening and related appointments, explore our Women’s Health services.
Is it perimenopause?
Menopause usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55. Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause, when symptoms may appear even though you are still having periods.
Common changes include:
- Periods becoming heavier, lighter or less predictable
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Disrupted sleep or fatigue
- Changes in mood, anxiety or irritability
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Palpitations, headaches or joint aches
- Vaginal dryness, discomfort during sex or urinary symptoms
- Changes in sex drive
Symptoms vary. Our guide to perimenopause, menopause and HRT explains more.
When to book
You do not need to wait until symptoms are severe or your periods have stopped. Consider an assessment if changes affect your wellbeing, sleep, relationships or work.
Symptoms or periods stopping before age 45 need a different assessment, particularly before age 40. See our article on premature and early menopause.
What happens at your appointment
Your clinician will discuss:
- Your symptoms — when they began and how they affect daily life.
- Your medical history — periods, contraception, medication and relevant personal or family history.
- Possible other causes — for example, thyroid problems or anaemia when clinically indicated.
- Options — HRT, non-hormonal treatment and lifestyle measures, where appropriate.
- Next steps — a treatment and follow-up plan agreed with you.
It can help to make a note of your symptoms and recent period dates before the consultation.
Do I need a blood test?
Often not. For people aged 45 and over with typical symptoms, NICE guidance generally recommends identifying perimenopause or menopause from symptoms and menstrual history rather than routine hormone tests.
Tests may be considered if you are younger, symptoms are unusual, or your doctor suspects another cause. We will explain any recommended test and its cost before proceeding.
Your treatment options
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment. Your symptoms, personal medical history and preferences help determine what is suitable.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
HRT can be an effective treatment for hot flushes, night sweats and other menopause symptoms, and helps maintain bone health. Oestrogen may be provided as a patch, gel, spray or tablet. People with a womb usually also need a progestogen to protect the womb lining.
Your doctor will explain the potential benefits, risks and appropriate formulations in the context of your health history. HRT can sometimes begin during perimenopause.
Vaginal and urinary symptoms
Local vaginal oestrogen or non-hormonal options may help with dryness and discomfort. Your clinician can discuss suitability and other causes of persistent urinary symptoms.
If you prefer not to take HRT
Depending on your symptoms, non-hormonal treatments, menopause-focused CBT and changes to sleep, activity and other habits may be considered.
Reviews and ongoing care
After starting or changing treatment, a review is generally recommended at around three months, followed by at least annual reviews if treatment continues. Your clinician may arrange an earlier review for side effects or ongoing concerns.
Reviews can cover symptom relief, bleeding, blood pressure, treatment adjustments and ongoing screening.
When not to wait
Please seek prompt clinical advice for symptoms that should not simply be attributed to menopause, including:
- Bleeding after 12 months without a period
- Heavy or unexpected bleeding, including bleeding while using HRT
- A new breast lump or other concerning breast change
- Unexplained swelling or pain in one leg
Chest pain or sudden breathlessness may be an emergency: call 999.
Appointments and fees
Women’s health appointment (30 minutes): £175. Please confirm the current appointment price and service with reception or the booking team before paying.
Follow-up appointments, prescriptions and any recommended tests may have separate charges. Please check these with the practice before agreeing to additional services. See the prices page or contact the clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral?
No. You can normally book a private GP appointment directly.
Can I consider HRT while still having periods?
Yes, it may be an option during perimenopause. Your doctor will discuss suitable treatment and contraception where needed.
Will I need a blood test to confirm menopause?
Usually not when you are 45 or older with typical symptoms. Assessment differs for younger patients or when another condition is suspected.
When is treatment reviewed?
A review at around three months after starting or changing treatment is generally recommended, then at least annually.
Will my NHS GP be informed?
You can discuss sharing a consultation summary with your NHS GP as part of your care.
Clinical guidance and further reading
These external clinical resources provide further background:
