But how about systemic HRT – patches, gels, pills and sprays? This is a more controversial prospect, but might we one day be able to pick them up in Boots, too?

Every woman’s experience of menopause is unique, but the unifying fact is that we’re losing hormones that are vital to our long-term health; oestrogen has protective factors for bones, heart and brain. HRT has been controversial since a flawed study in 2002 said that it increased the risk of breast cancer, heart disease, blood clot and stroke. It is finally – thanks to tireless campaigners – being accepted as a solution.

There is a window of opportunity when it comes to starting – either within 10 years of menopause or before the age of 60 gives the best protection for the heart, and the benefits outweigh the risks for most women. But you can begin at any age and many experts agree that you should be allowed to take it for as long as you want. Plus, there are very few women who absolutely can’t take HRT – even those who have had breast cancer can be sometimes prescribed it, under the care of a specialist.

“There is evidence-based robust evidence that most women will benefit from HRT,” adds Newson. “All women who want it ought to be given it.”

Easier said than done. Thousands of us are struggling to get prescriptions. This is partly down to a lack of education on the part of our overworked medical profession – through no fault of their own. In May last year, it was reported that 41 per cent of medical schools didn’t have a mandatory menopause education programme. Many universities said that they expected students to gain menopause education while on GP training placements.

In addition, the lingering fears mean many GPs still aren’t happy to prescribe HRT and a devastating number of women are given antidepressants instead  – over a third, according to 2019 research. This is in spite of NICE guidelines, which clearly state that antidepressants aren’t the right treatment if you haven’t been diagnosed with clinical depression.

Menopause specialists tend to be booked up for months. And there are only 118 NHS menopause clinics offered by British Menopause Society specialists.

Newson disagrees with those suggesting that women ought not to self-prescribe. “Women aren’t stupid. The Balance app, which I launched last year to support women through menopause, shows that they feel more empowered and educated since using it. Sixty-nine per cent are now on HRT, and 87 per cent of them self-diagnosed. I don’t see why women can’t be in control.”

At the same time, she adds: “It’s essential that all healthcare professionals know more about the menopause and HRT, and women ought to be monitored and advised.”