Our Collective Voice: “Every treatment I’ve tried, I’ve had to pay for privately first”

I started getting joint pain in my late 40s and, after numerous tests and appointments, it was concluded that it could be the menopause. There was a reluctance to write a HRT prescription so I booked a private appointment with a specialist online. I talked them through my history and they agreed to write me a prescription. When I needed to get it refilled, I took it into my GP who then wrote me my next prescription on the NHS. This really helped my joints but I then started to get other symptoms.

I went back to my GP to ask for treatment but I was told there was nothing they could offer. I booked myself another appointment with the private specialist, who told me there were plenty of options I could try. The first prescription didn’t have a huge impact but I tried a different medication and my symptoms became manageable. Essentially every treatment I’ve tried, I’ve had to pay for privately first. I know how lucky I am to be able to do this. What happens to women who can’t afford this luxury?