General
Domains: Communication, Clinical Practice
No CPD Points
Welcome to Docet’s podcast Sound Optometry, hosted by Michelle Hanratty, an IP optometrist with 20 years’ experience on the high street and in hospital. Each month, with case studies and in-depth conversations, we will be exploring topics that matter the most to you as optometrists and are relevant for everyday practice.
Episode 40 - Menopause: Effect and cause
There is a wide range of symptoms linked to the menopause, but the connection between fluctuating hormones and eye health is not well known or understood. This podcast aims to inform optometrists about the link between the menopause and conditions such as dry eye disease, glaucoma and cataract.
The podcast begins with Michelle Hanratty and ophthalmologist Julia Sen discussing the typical menopausal changes. We hear that ocular changes are not just limited to the ocular surface, as well as the need to take a more holistic approach and consider the general health and wellbeing of the patient as well as that of the eyes.
In the next part of the podcast, Professor Stuti Misra discusses what current research tells us about the changes to ocular health in relation to fluctuating or decreasing hormone levels. Research into this topic is still relatively new, and Stuti explains the challenges faced by studies and gives an indication as to where research is headed in the near future.
Both guests emphasise the importance of a careful history and the necessity of open communication when discussing signs and symptoms relating to menopause.
An additional reading element consolidates the learning on this topic.
Once you have listened to the podcast in Unit 1 and looked at the required reading in Unit 2 you can complete the CPD quiz to gain one non-interactive CPD point.
Subscribe to the series on your preferred podcast player so you don’t miss an episode. You can access all episodes of Sound Optometry here.
First published: June 2024
Last reviewed: April 2025