Question 1

How quickly can I get started?

Accepted Answer

This depends on availability, but often you can see a healthcare provider within just a few days! Each provider has their own schedule and availability, so if you want to be seen by a specific provider, waiting times may be longer. You pick a care provider, see when they’re available and book straight away. You don’t need an account for that.

Question 2

How much does a consultation cost?

Accepted Answer

We are fully transparent about fees. Each care provider on Uma sets their own rate, and you see it before you book an appointment. If additional costs arise (for example, because further examinations or tests are needed), the provider will always discuss this with you during the consultation. Some health insurers reimburse (part of) the costs.

Question 3

Can I choose my healthcare provider?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. You can choose which provider you make an appointment with. On their profile you’ll find additional information about the provider, and on our social media we regularly post videos of care providers on Uma. This way you can get a better sense of them and choose one that suits you!

Question 4

Is everything really online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all consultations are fully online, through secure video calls.  If physical tests are needed, the provider will discuss with you how and where you can have them done. Usually this will be at your GP or gynaecologist, or at one of our partner organisations!

Question 5

What if I need more help?

Accepted Answer

You’re never on your own. After each consultation you can schedule follow-up appointments, and in more complex situations the providers consult with each other. Should it happen that your situation requires even more specialised help that isn’t available within the Uma provider network, the providers will refer you to a suitable specialist.

Question 6

How can I pay?

Accepted Answer

However you like

Question 7

Are there consultations or programmes?

Accepted Answer

Both!

Question 8

Is there a platform?

Accepted Answer

Of course!

Question 9

How do you know if you are in perimenopause?

Accepted Answer

Perimenopause is diagnosed based on the full clinical picture, not a single test. A useful starting point is mapping the broad spectrum of possible symptoms, which you can do with the symptom check.

A care provider then looks at typical signals such as hot flushes and changes to your menstrual cycle, and rules out other possible causes. Because no blood test can confirm or exclude perimenopause with certainty, the overall pattern of symptoms matters most.

Sometimes the response to treatment adds clarity too: if your symptoms improve clearly with an appropriate treatment, that supports the diagnosis.

Question 10

Can you be in perimenopause if your periods are still regular?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A changing cycle is a common signal of perimenopause, but not every woman notices it. If you take the pill or have a hormonal coil, you will not see cycle changes at all.

In those cases, other symptoms become the most important indicator: poorer sleep, hot flushes, mood swings, or joint pain. A care provider looks at the whole picture, not only at your cycle.

Question 11

What are the first signs of perimenopause?

Accepted Answer

The first signs of perimenopause are often subtle. Common early signals include:

A menstrual cycle that shifts by a few days
Lighter or heavier bleeding than usual
Sleeping more shallowly
Being quicker to snap and slower to recover from a busy period

Hot flushes and night sweats tend to appear later. If you recognise this pattern, tracking your cycle and symptoms for a few months can give a care provider useful information.

Question 12

How long does perimenopause last on average?

Accepted Answer

Perimenopause lasts four to six years on average, though for some women it is over within a few months. The phase officially ends one year after your last period. Symptoms can continue for some time after that point, and for most women there are treatment options that can help.

Question 13

Can you test for perimenopause with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

A blood test cannot reliably confirm or rule out perimenopause. Hormone levels fluctuate so strongly during this phase that a single measurement says little: a normal result does not mean perimenopause is not the cause.  Over 45: a doctor will generally make the diagnosis based on your symptoms and cycle, without relying on blood tests.  Under 45, and especially under 40: a blood test is worthwhile to rule out early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), which require different management.

Question 14

Can you still get pregnant during perimenopause?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As long as you ovulate occasionally, pregnancy is possible, even with an irregular cycle. The general guidance is:

Use contraception until one year after your last period, if that falls after age 50
Use contraception until two years after your last period, if you are younger than 50

If you use hormonal contraception, different considerations apply. Talk to your doctor about which form is appropriate during this phase.

Question 15

Is hormone therapy safe during perimenopause?

Accepted Answer

For most healthy women with troublesome symptoms, the benefits of hormone therapy outweigh the risks when treatment is started around the time of the transition. The risk profile varies depending on the type of hormone therapy and how it is taken, and certain conditions in your medical history may require extra caution. There is no single answer that applies to everyone. A care provider weighs this up with you, based on your symptoms, history, and preferences.

The most frequently asked questions