Menopause Program
Menopause is a natural stage of life, but for many women it can significantly affect quality of life. Despite the availability of safe and effective treatments, many continue to struggle with
symptoms that are under-recognized or under-treated.
Research shows that there are more than 30 possible menopausal symptoms, which may begin in a woman’s 40s and, for some, continue long-term. Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood changes, memory concerns, headaches or migraines, joint pain, heart palpitations, urinary tract infections, vaginal dryness, pain with intercourse, and changes in sexual desire.
Many women face barriers to care, including stigma around discussing menopause and long wait times to see specialists. As a result, symptoms may go untreated for years.
Our Menopause Program
The ByWard Family Health Team Menopause Program is led by Nurse Practitioners and supported by Pharmacists. The program’s goal is to improve access to timely, evidence-based menopause care and to support patients in managing both symptoms and long-term health concerns related to menopause.
Treatment plans are individualized and may include:
• Lifestyle and non-hormonal strategies
• Hormone therapy, when appropriate
• Other evidence-based medications and supports
The Menopause Program is open to OHIP-insured patients who are registered to a primary care provider at ByWard Family Health Team and are experiencing symptoms related to perimenopause or menopause.
If you are interested in exploring treatment options:
1. Start by discussing your symptoms with your family doctor or nurse practitioner.
2. If additional support is needed, your primary care provider may request a referral to the Menopause Program.
Helpful Resources
• Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada – Menopause information
for patients: https://www.menopauseandu.ca/
• The Menopause Society – MenoNotes:
Easy-to-understand patient education sheets written by menopause experts: https://menopause.org/patient-education/menonotes
• The Menopause Society – Hormone Therapy Safety Statement: https://www.herstasis.com/hormone-therapy/#NAMSPositionStatement
• The Menopause Society – Deciding About Hormone Therapy: https://menopause.org/wp-content/uploads/default-document-library/MenoNote-
Deciding-About-HT-2025.pdf
• Herstasis:
A non-profit organization focused on menopause education and awareness: https://www.herstasis.com/
