Can my GP in Kiama prescribe HRT for menopause?

Yes. GPs at Kiama Downs Medical Practice can prescribe Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) as part of your menopause management plan. Our menopause-focused GPs are up to date with the latest evidence-based guidelines and will discuss both hormonal and non-hormonal treatment options tailored to your individual needs and health history.

What is perimenopause and when should I see a GP?

Perimenopause is the transition period before menopause, which can begin in your early 40s or sometimes even your 30s. Symptoms include irregular periods, hot flushes, mood changes, sleep disturbances and brain fog. If you are experiencing these symptoms, our GPs at Kiama Downs Medical Practice serving the Illawarra and South Coast can help with diagnosis and management.

How long is a menopause consultation at Kiama Downs Medical Practice?

New patients should book a 45 to 60-minute menopause consultation, while existing patients can book a 30-minute appointment. This allows your GP at Kiama Downs adequate time to review your symptoms, health history and discuss treatment options. We welcome women from Kiama, Shellharbour, Gerringong, Wollongong and across the Illawarra region.

Menopause & Perimenopause Care

Q: Is there a menopause GP in the Illawarra or Kiama area?

Yes. Kiama Downs Medical Practice has several GPs with specialist interests in menopause and perimenopause care, including Dr Danielle Ward, Dr Nicole Power and Dr Anneliese Jens. They offer dedicated menopause consultations for women across Kiama, the Illawarra, Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven regions.

Personalised compassionate care for women navigating perimenopause and menopause in Kiama, Illawarra, Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven areas.

Book Your Menopause or Perimenopause Appointment

GPs in Kiama Downs have specialist interests in Menopause, Perimenopause, Women's health, Contraception, Menstrual and period concerns and IUDs. Several GPs including Dr Danielle Ward, Dr Nicole Power and Dr Anneliese Jens in Kiama Downs offer dedicated menopause consultations to support women through every stage of their hormonal health journey. These Menopause and perimenopause services are available to anyone in the Kiama, Illawarra, Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven areas.

New Patients: 45-minute to 60-minute consultation
Existing Patients: 30-minute consultation

The cost, Medicare refund and out of pocket for the above consultations are detailed on our appointments page.

To schedule your appointment, please book a "Menopause and Perimenopause" appointment via the link below.

Book Appointment

Meet Your Menopause-Focused GPs

Two GPs in Kiama Downs currently have special interests and additional training in perimenopause and menopause care:

Dr Danielle Ward – with a strong focus on women's health and hormonal management

Dr Nicole Power – committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate menopause support

Dr Anneliese Jens – (only sees patients for menopause/perimenopause care exclusively) with interests in hormonal and non-hormonal options as well as lifestyle interventions.

They are up to date with the latest research and guidelines to ensure you receive the highest standard of care.

Understanding Menopause

Menopause is a natural life stage, usually occurring between ages 45 and 55. It sometimes can happen much earlier, in peoples early 40's or even 30s. It marks the end of menstrual cycles and can bring a range of symptoms including:

Physical Symptoms

Hot flushes – sudden feelings of heat, especially in the face, neck or chest
Night sweats – excessive sweating during sleep, often disturbing rest
Sleep disturbances – trouble falling or staying asleep, or feeling unrefreshed
Heart palpitations – sensations of a racing or irregular heartbeat
Headaches or migraines – changes in frequency or intensity during hormone shifts
Joint and muscle aches – generalised stiffness or pain
Tiredness or fatigue – persistent low energy levels
Weight changes – especially increased abdominal fat
Dry or itchy skin – changes in skin hydration and elasticity
Hair thinning or loss – particularly from the scalp or eyebrows

Psychological and Cognitive Symptoms

Mood swings – increased irritability, sadness or emotional lability
Anxiety – heightened feelings of worry or unease
Depression or low mood – reduced motivation or joy in activities
Forgetfulness – memory lapses or feeling mentally "foggy"
Difficulty concentrating – trouble focusing or processing information
Loss of confidence – reduced self-esteem or assurance
Panic attacks – sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort
Increased stress sensitivity – lower tolerance to pressure or demands

Sexual and Urogenital Symptoms

Vaginal dryness – less lubrication causing irritation or discomfort
Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) – often due to vaginal thinning
Reduced libido – less interest in sex or intimacy
Frequent urinary tract infections – due to changes in vaginal flora and tissue
Urinary urgency – a sudden, intense need to urinate
Incontinence or bladder leakage – especially during exertion, coughing or sneezing

Other Health-Related Changes

Irregular or missed periods – cycles may become longer, shorter or skipped
Changes in cholesterol or blood pressure – possible increased cardiovascular risk
Bone thinning (osteopenia or osteoporosis) – reduced bone density and fracture risk
Changes in body odour – shifts in sweat gland activity
Digestive issues or bloating – potentially linked to hormone fluctuations
Altered taste or smell – sometimes reported during hormonal changes

Your GP will work with you to explore both hormonal and non-hormonal treatment options, including lifestyle approaches tailored to your needs.

Trusted Resources for Patients

To learn more about Menopause and read resources from trusted resources please read the below: