Alliance Party Health Spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has said that it is important for women to have access to Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in response to a UK shortage impacting women in Northern Ireland.  

The Department of Health has said it is actively considering allowing pharmacists to substitute certain products with safe alternatives, whilst English pharmacies have already been given temporary powers to make swaps without a new prescription from a doctor. 

“It is important that women have access to HRT and are provided with support from their GP and community pharmacist,” said Ms Bradshaw.  

“For women experiencing menopause, HRT offers vital relief from symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings. It is time for practical measures, like those introduced in England, to ensure women’s healthcare needs are met. 

“Women’s health needs to be treated as more of a priority in Northern Ireland and that is why the Alliance Party is advocating for a Women’s Health Strategy which would include measures to implement specialist menopause clinics.”