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The surge in treatments specifically aimed at alleviating menopausal symptoms marks a significant trend in the rapidly evolving sector of aesthetic medicine. With nearly half (47%) of practitioners responding to Hamilton Fraser’s recent survey confirming that they are offering procedures targeting this niche, it’s vital that both practitioners and patients understand the associated insurance risks.
The transition into menopause is a period marked by major physiological changes, prompting many women to seek aesthetic treatments. However, navigating the insurance intricacies for such procedures can be daunting for practitioners.
During perimenopause – the months or years leading up to menopause - women can experience a wide range of symptoms due to hormonal fluctuations, from skin alterations to hot flashes, insomnia and difficulty concentrating. There are in fact 34 known symptoms of menopause, and for one in four women these can be quite debilitating. Yet one in three women experiencing menopausal symptoms choose not to go to their GP, despite 77% finding at least one symptom of menopause ‘very difficult’.
While many perimenopausal and menopausal women opt not to see their doctor about their symptoms, there has been a rise in this group seeking aesthetic treatments, according to UK experts. This has been attributed to a better understanding of how treatments can benefit women approaching and entering menopause.
Aesthetic treatments during this phase are not merely about beauty; they are about empowerment, comfort, and overall wellbeing. Vulvovaginal rejuvenation and skin-enhancing procedures can boost menopausal women’s confidence, making a profound difference in their lives during what can be a challenging period of transition.
The array of aesthetic treatments catering to menopausal symptoms is diverse. Understanding the options available can be the first step in a journey towards rejuvenation and self-assurance for women experiencing unpleasant side effects. Some of the most popular treatments we cover include:
Each treatment is designed to address specific symptoms of menopause, enabling women to receive personalised care tailored to their unique needs. With Hamilton Fraser's insurance, practitioners can tailor their policy to cover specific menopause-related treatments, so that they can offer these treatments confidently to meet the demands of their diverse clientele. This tailored approach enables practitioners to offer patients a bespoke package of treatments not only to address the physical symptoms of menopause but also to support women's emotional and mental wellbeing during this transitional phase.
For more information on how menopause affects body image and subsequent motivations for treatment, read our separate article, ‘Treating menopausal patients: menopause, mood and the mirror’.
When considering which aesthetic treatments to offer menopausal patients, as with any patient it's crucial to weigh up both the potential benefits and the risks and to manage patient expectations. Physically, procedures carry risks such as allergic reactions, infection, or unsatisfactory results. Emotionally, the impact of treatment outcomes can significantly affect a woman's self-esteem and mental health.
These risks make comprehensive insurance coverage essential. Insurance not only offers financial protection against unforeseen complications, but also makes sure clients receive the best possible care. However, navigating insurance can be complex. Policies vary widely in terms of what treatments are covered, the extent of coverage provided, and the conditions under which a claim can be made. Both practitioners and clients need to understand the specifics of their coverage, including any exclusions or limitations, to fully comprehend their rights and responsibilities.
Generally, insurance policies distinguish between treatments deemed 'cosmetic' and those considered 'medically necessary’. However, this line can often blur, especially when treatments significantly impact a woman's quality of life during menopause. If you are in any doubt, we would always advise you to contact your insurance company who will be able to advise you about any documentation or proof of medical necessity required.
While the rise in demand for a wider range of treatments has led to greater availability of more inclusive and comprehensive insurance options, the level of coverage can vary widely. It’s important to understand what your policy covers, actively communicate with your insurance provider, and stay informed about changes in the insurance landscape. Not only will this protect you as the practitioner, but this approach will also help make sure that women looking to address menopausal symptoms receive the coverage they need for their treatments to be carried out safely.
As the demand for menopause-related aesthetic treatments grows, so too does the need for comprehensive insurance coverage. There are numerous procedures and treatments commonly available in aesthetic clinics which can help women on their journey through menopause. At Hamilton Fraser we offer insurance for both essential and more specialised cosmetic practices, such as surgical and non-surgical gynaecological aesthetic solutions.
As the UK’s market leader in providing bespoke insurance solutions for aesthetic treatments, we continuously monitor the sector to allow for new treatments and make sure that we meet our customers’ needs. If a specific treatment is not listed on our treatment pages, please contact us to discuss your requirements.
