PCN Women’s Health Study Day in Cardiff

The inaugural PCN Women’s Health Study Day was held on 9 February 2023 in Cardiff. The day aimed to shine a light on women’s health issues and help those who attended to deliver women’s healthcare more confidently. I think the delegates will agree that the day was inspiring and provided lots of practical tips to take back to clinic and share with colleagues.

The day began with Hazel Hayden, founder of the Bristol Menopause and Wellwoman Clinic, giving an overview of what menopause is, symptoms, management – both pharmacological and lifestyle – and explaining why nurses are so important in helping women navigate this life stage. This was a particularly valuable session with the current media attention on the menopause.

Next, Sarah Kipps, clinical team leader of Falcon Road sexual health clinic, looked at contraception in the over 40s. Continuing on from the previous menopause discussion, she highlighted that although fertility declines as women age, effective contraception is still needed until women reach menopause. Sarah covered what methods are suitable for the older women and when a woman can be certain that contraception is no longer required.