Calls for HRT funding to include younger women facing early menopause

Experts are urging the government to include younger women in plans to fund hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

On Monday, it was revealed that the Department of Health is looking into a proposal to fund HRT for women experiencing menopause, with detailed plans expected in the coming weeks. 

Although menopause is typically associated with older women, government data shows that approximately 1 in 100 women experience menopause before the age of 40.

The Daisy Network, a support organisation for women undergoing early menopause, reports that the condition affects about 1 in 1,000 women under 30 and 1 in 10,000 under 20.

Dr. Deirdre Lundy, a GP specialising in menopause and the lead medical officer at the Complex Menopause Service in the National Maternity Hospital, spoke about the significant financial strain HRT can place on younger women. 

“A monthly supply can cost up to €50,” she told the Irish Examiner. “There is a silent group of women out there struggling, often without voicing their challenges.”

Dr. Lundy went on to explain that many of her patients are young women who have entered menopause early, often due to genetic factors or as a consequence of cancer treatments.

“I had an early menopause clinic today, and all those patients were in their teens, 20s, or early 30s,” she shared.

“For these individuals, HRT is not a lifestyle choice—it’s essential for their health and well-being. Without sex hormones, young women face significant health risks as they age.”

Despite the importance of HRT, Dr. Lundy pointed out the disparity in healthcare costs. 

While contraceptive pills, which also contain estrogen, are available for free and offer some health benefits, HRT remains an out-of-pocket expense for many women. 

“It’s less daunting for a 22-year-old to pick up a contraceptive prescription than it is to collect HRT patches and Utrogestan. 

“There’s an embarrassment factor, and these women often face questioning in pharmacies about whether they should be on HRT, in addition to the financial burden.”

She went on to say: “Nobody should have to decide whether to use HRT or the pill based on cost alone. 

“For these women, HRT isn’t really a choice—it’s a necessity. It should be free for those under a certain age, to ensure they have access to the quality care they need.”

A spokeswoman for the Department of Health confirmed that Health Minister Stephen Donnelly intends to introduce a free HRT scheme for women, with final details being worked out by officials. 

Currently, there are six public menopause clinics in Ireland, including locations in Cork and Nenagh, offering support to women navigating this challenging life stage.

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