Loretta Dignam's Campaign for Free HRT
Loretta Dignam, founder of The Menopause Hub, has spent the past four years passionately campaigning for free Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in Ireland. A dedicated advocate for women’s health, she has focused her efforts on breaking down the financial barriers that prevent many women from accessing HRT, a critical treatment for managing peri/menopause symptoms. Through a combination of strategic discussions with the Department of Health’s Women’s Health Taskforce, interactions with politicians and ministers, media appearances, and speaking engagements, Dignam has brought national attention to the vital role HRT plays in improving women’s quality of life during peri/menopause and the importance of making it affordable for all.
Dignam’s campaign seeks to address the often-overlooked healthcare needs of women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. In her discussions with policymakers, she has underscored the importance of including free HRT in Ireland’s healthcare system. Following the launch of the Free Contraception Scheme, which benefits women aged 17-35, Dignam urged the Irish government to extend similar support to women at the other end of the reproductive cycle—those dealing with peri/menopause. She has called for free HRT to be included in Budget 2025, and her petition, co-led with Sallyanne Brady of The Irish Menopause, is gaining significant public support. The petition, which is due to be submitted to the government this weekend, is backed by thousands of signatures.
What is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?
HRT is a critical treatment for managing the often debilitating symptoms of peri/menopause, such as hot flushes, mood swings, night sweats, and sleep disturbances. Menopause occurs when a woman’s body undergoes a natural decline in reproductive hormones, primarily oestrogen and progesterone. HRT works by replenishing these hormones, helping to alleviate symptoms and significantly improving quality of life for many women.
Beyond symptom relief, HRT offers longer-term health benefits. It has been linked to a reduced risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease when started before age 60. Recently, research has also shown that HRT can even help reduce insulin resistance, further enhancing its value as a preventive health measure.
The Call for Free HRT
Loretta Dignam’s push for free HRT is rooted in the belief that menopause care should be considered a basic healthcare right. Currently, Irish women in all stages of menopause—whether perimenopause, post-menopause, early menopause, or menopause triggered by surgery—must pay out-of-pocket for HRT. The costs, which can range from €30 to €80 per month, place a financial burden on many women who rely on this medication to maintain their health and quality of life. For some, the recurring expense means they must choose between their health and other financial priorities.
Dignam argues that by making HRT free, the government would not only ease the financial strain on women but also improve public health outcomes. Since early access to HRT can prevent serious conditions down the line, it will help reduce the need for costly treatments later in a patient’s life. Dignam also points out that the current healthcare approach, which offers a free bone density scan only at age 65, misses the opportunity for early diagnosis of bone and heart issues that commonly arise during menopause.
Following the welcome introduction of free contraception for women aged 17 to 35, Dignam highlighted the need for similar support for menopausal women. In her view, the focus on reproductive health should extend beyond contraception and encompass the entire reproductive cycle. Her message is clear: menopause should not be a forgotten stage of life when it comes to healthcare.
The Path Forward: Budget 2025 and Beyond
Loretta Dignam has called for the introduction of free HRT as part of Ireland’s Budget 2025, and her advocacy has already yielded responses from the Department of Health, indicating that plans for free HRT may be considered. While a formal meeting with Minister Stephen Donnelly has yet to take place, Dignam remains optimistic. She continues to pressure the government through public petitions and ongoing media campaigns, ensuring the conversation stays front of mind until real action is taken.
If successful, Dignam’s campaign will not only improve access to essential healthcare for thousands of Irish women but also set a new standard for peri/menopause care. By integrating free HRT into the national healthcare system, Ireland has the potential to lead the way in recognising and supporting women’s health throughout every stage of life.
Free HRT is about more than just alleviating symptoms—it’s about empowering women to manage their health without the additional burden of financial worry. By addressing the healthcare needs of women during peri/menopause, Ireland can foster a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system, where every woman has the support she needs to thrive.
Our sincere thanks to everyone who has signed the petition and supported the cause. If you haven't signed the petition but would like to-- Visit the link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MN2CJHV.