GPs have a pivotal role to play in improving menopause care, highlights AJGP

The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has released the latest issue of the Australian Journal of General Practice (AJGP), themed ‘Menopause 2’, highlighting the critical role GPs play in improving menopause care and addressing long-standing gaps in education, diagnosis and treatment. 

Building on the April AJGP issue, ‘Menopause 1’, this edition explores the assessment and management of commonly overlooked menopause-related conditions. The latest evidence to support GPs in delivering patient-centred care is also spotlighted. 

RACGP Expert Committee – Quality Care member and women's health spokesperson Associate Professor Magdalena Simonis said the issue reinforces why menopause is an essential part of general practice and why better awareness among the clinician community, including GPs, is needed. 

“Women deserve access to high-quality menopause care no matter where they live, yet menopause has historically been insufficiently discussed, researched and taught across healthcare,” she said. 

“Because of the ongoing relationships GPs build with their patients, they are in the unique position to support every stage of the menopause transition, from recognising symptoms early to helping with informed decision-making. 

“Improving menopause education is vital. When GPs have access to the latest evidence and resources, they are better equipped to have conversations that many women have waited years to have. This can make a significant difference to quality of life and long-term health outcomes.” 

The issue features practical guidance for GPs on topics including genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), menopause hormone therapy, cardiovascular health and menopause, and osteoporosis and menopause. 

It also highlights the importance of proactively identifying symptoms that patients may not raise themselves. 

“Many menopause-related conditions can significantly impact quality of life, and don't have to be accepted as an inevitable part of ageing,” Associate Professor Simonis said. 

“By starting conversations and being better informed to recognise symptoms, GPs can help improve health outcomes and experiences for all women.” 

Additional topics featured in this issue include low-dose radiotherapy for osteoarthritis, early melanoma diagnosis, rare disease care, and highlights from RACGP's Practice Owners Conference. 

The AJGP provides evidence-based, peer-reviewed information to support GPs in delivering high-quality care across diverse clinical and community settings. As an open access publication, AJGP is available to clinicians, researchers, educators, students and the wider healthcare community.