Diabetes Specialist Nurse Forum UK
RCN Special Edition Podcast series on Women living with diabetes across the lifespan: Menopause
Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is aimed at registered nurses, midwives, and other healthcare professionals. It does not constitute medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for professional clinical judgement, local guidelines, or individualised patient care. Listeners should always refer to current NICE guidance, local trust policies, and other relevant clinical resources, and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any specific patient or personal health concern. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Royal College of Nursing. The episode brings together Amanda Williams chair of the RCN diabetes forum and Deborah Holloway from the RCN women's health forum to discuss all things menopause and Diabetes. Menopause brings significant hormonal changes that can complicate diabetes management, yet the overlap between the two is often under-discussed in clinical practice. In this special edition episode, we explore how menopause affects blood glucose control, and how nurses can better support women with diabetes through this stage of life. Our guests discuss the impact of fluctuating oestrogen levels on insulin sensitivity, the challenges of distinguishing menopausal symptoms from signs of hypo- or hyperglycaemia, and considerations around hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women with diabetes. We also look at the increased cardiovascular risk during this life stage, and how nurses can support women with practical, personalised advice on lifestyle, medication adjustments, and long-term health. Whether you work in diabetes care, general practice, or women's health, this episode offers practical guidance to help you support women with diabetes through menopause with confidence.
