7. Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Women’s Health

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:59 pm on 5 July 2022.

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Photo of Buffy Williams Buffy Williams Labour 5:59, 5 July 2022

Thank you, Minister, for today's statement. As you know, perinatal mental health support and the heart attack gender gap are extremely important to me, but we need to talk about the menopause too. The menopause is a natural process that all women go through. However, many women find it a very stressful time, like any time of change. I'm really happy to see fewer and fewer women afraid or embarrassed to talk about this change and more and more women opting for treatment, but we need to be ready to meet this demand. I think it's extremely important that we remember that the menopause is a very personal change. We all go on our own journey and it will affect us all differently.

After needing surgery over 11 years ago, I was thrown into the menopause, and, after chatting with my consultant, I opted to go with HRT treatment. I was afraid at first, after hearing some of the potential risks that come with HRT, but it's what worked for me and I wouldn't be without it. Echoing Delyth's contribution, I know that the Minister announced, earlier this year, that she will be taking part in the UK menopause taskforce following the struggle of supply in HRT. Can we please receive an update regarding the work of the taskforce to date? Diolch.