Strangford MLA Kellie Armstrong, a member of the All-Party Group on Women's Health, and who is going through the menopause herself, stated: "It is now established that the health and well-being of women going through menopause should not be ignored. Yet it remains the case that too many are unable to access support through primary care, and many are finding it difficult to access medication.

“Too often women are having to choose whether to suffer weeks of the worst symptoms, or to go private waiting for prescriptions or support. It’s unacceptable.

"I would also reiterate my party's call for specialist menopause clinics within the public health system to ensure women receive appropriate and timely support from skilled professionals."

South Belfast MLA Paula Bradshaw, who is Vice Chair of the All-Party Group and Alliance Health Spokesperson, added: "I was proud to sponsor the launch yesterday (17 October) of the 'Menopause Together' charity up at Parliament Buildings, the first charity to provide dedicated support for women in Northern Ireland on their menopause journey.

"At the launch, I reaffirmed Alliance's commitment to a Women's Health Strategy, incorporating improved pathways for endometriosis, better resourcing for gynaecology, and earlier screening for certain cancers.

"However, an essential part of such a strategy has to be improved support for women going through menopause, including the establishment of clinics and appropriate access to advice and medication.

"Too many women face isolation and loneliness as they go through menopause. We need to ensure that it is no longer a taboo subject, and that everything the public health system has to offer is fully accessible to them."