Frist National Perimenopause Guidelines Released in Macedonia

Women and medical specialists in Macedonia now have access to evidence-based guidelines for recognizing, treating, and supporting women during perimenopause. This marks the first time such resources have been available in the country.

The Macedonian Association of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (mago), in collaboration with Hera – Association for Health Education and research, presented these national guidelines at the XXI Congress of the Macedonian Medical Association. The guidelines are the result of months of work by a multidisciplinary team of experts.

Perimenopause is a natural phase every woman experiences. Though, Macedonia hadn’t previously recognized it institutionally, nor established treatment standards or support systems. These guidelines provide clear, consistent advice for gynecologists and general practitioners, ensuring women receive high-quality care.

With over 1.2 billion women worldwide now in perimenopause or postmenopause, this guide addresses significant challenges facing the healthcare system. These challenges include increased risks of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, cognitive decline, and other chronic conditions.

“These guidelines are a crucial step towards improving women’s health in Macedonia,” says Dr.Elena Kirova,lead author of the guidelines. “They empower healthcare providers to offer effective, personalized care during this significant life stage.”

The guidelines cover a range of topics, including symptom management, hormone therapy, lifestyle modifications, and psychological support. They aim to improve the quality of life for women experiencing perimenopause and reduce the long-term health risks associated with this transition.

mago and Hera plan to distribute the guidelines widely to healthcare professionals across Macedonia and will also offer training programs to ensure proper implementation. More details can be found on the Hera Association website.