Pause and Co Healthcare

How it works

Your consultation, step by step

From booking to your personalised plan — here's exactly what to expect when you consult with Dr Nadira Awal.

Dr Nadira Awal preparing for a menopause consultation
  1. 1. Book & complete questionnaire

    Choose your consultation type and complete a confidential online health questionnaire.

  2. 2. Meet Dr Awal by video

    Attend your one-to-one video consultation from anywhere in the UK.

  3. 3. Personalised plan

    Receive an evidence-based treatment plan and, where appropriate, a private prescription.

  4. 4. Ongoing reviews

    Return for review appointments to fine-tune your treatment as your needs evolve.

What to expect

Your journey, step by step

From your first enquiry to ongoing reviews, here's a closer look at how we care for you at every stage.

Before you book

1. Booking

Before you book

To schedule an appointment, book online at your earliest convenience or contact us via our enquiry form or on 0121 314 6774 and we'll offer alternative times.

Before your consultation we'll email you a confidential medical history and symptom-chart questionnaire. Completing this in advance means we make the very most of our time together and can dive straight into what matters to you.

You'll also receive a secure video link, joining instructions and a short pre-consultation guide so you know exactly what to expect on the day.

During the consultation

2. Consultation

During the consultation

In your one-to-one video appointment with Dr Nadira Awal we take the time to understand your menopausal symptoms and what may be driving them. Guided by the British Menopause Society and NICE guidelines, we set out evidence-based options tailored to you.

We discuss the full range of treatments — hormonal and non-hormonal, complementary therapies and lifestyle change — and review the wider picture: nutrition, sleep, stress, activity, weight and mental wellbeing.

There is space for every question. You leave the appointment clear on what's happening in your body and confident about your next steps.

Your personalised treatment plan

3. Treatment plan

Your personalised treatment plan

Together we build a personalised plan that suits your circumstances — this may include HRT, non-hormonal alternatives, or a combination of medical and lifestyle support.

After your consultation we send a detailed summary letter, any private prescription needed, and a clear ongoing-care package you can continue with us or with your NHS GP.

Between appointments you can reach us by email or WhatsApp for follow-up questions, and book review consultations whenever you'd like to fine-tune your treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a GP referral?

No. You can book a private menopause consultation directly with Pause and Co Healthcare — no referral required.

Can Dr Awal prescribe HRT?

Yes. Where clinically appropriate, Dr Awal can issue a private prescription for HRT and other treatments during or after your consultation.

Do I need blood tests before my appointment?

Not always. Menopause is a clinical diagnosis in most women over 45. Where blood tests are helpful, Dr Awal will advise which ones and how to arrange them.

How long is a consultation?

New patient consultations are 60 minutes. Follow-up reviews are 30 or 45 minutes depending on complexity — see our pricing page for details.

Where are consultations held?

All consultations are held online via secure video, so you can join from anywhere in the UK.

What if I'm not sure I'm in perimenopause or menopause?

That's exactly what a specialist consultation is for. Dr Awal will take a detailed history of your symptoms, cycle and lifestyle to help you understand what's happening and what your options are — even if you're still having regular periods.

Can I have HRT if I've had breast cancer, a blood clot or migraine?

These conditions don't automatically rule HRT out, but they do need careful specialist review. Dr Awal will discuss the evidence, risks and non-hormonal alternatives so you can make an informed decision that's right for you.

How will I receive my prescription?

Where appropriate, Dr Awal will issue a private prescription electronically after your consultation. You can use it at a pharmacy of your choice, or we can guide you to trusted online pharmacies that deliver to your door.

Can I continue my treatment through the NHS afterwards?

Yes. After your initial consultation we'll provide a detailed letter for your NHS GP so they can consider continuing your prescription on the NHS. Many patients use us for specialist input and then transfer ongoing care to their GP.

What if my symptoms don't feel like 'classic' menopause?

Menopause affects every woman differently. Anxiety, joint pain, brain fog, palpitations, tinnitus, itchy skin and low mood can all be hormonal. Dr Awal treats the whole picture, not just hot flushes.

Do you offer support between appointments?

Yes. Once you're a patient you can contact us by email or WhatsApp with follow-up questions, and we'll arrange review appointments whenever you need to fine-tune your treatment.

Is my consultation confidential?

Absolutely. All consultations, records and communications are held in strict medical confidence in line with GMC guidelines and UK data protection law.

How do I pay?

Payment is taken securely online at the time of booking. We'll email your receipt and, if you have private medical insurance, we can provide an invoice with the details needed for a claim.

What if I need to reschedule or cancel?

You can reschedule up to 24 hours before your appointment at no charge. Cancellations within 24 hours may be subject to a fee — full details are on our booking confirmation.

Ready to book

Reserve your appointment on Semble

All bookings are managed through our secure Semble system — see live availability, choose your consultation type and get instant confirmation. If you have a question first, email info@pauseandcohealthcare.com and we'll get back to you within five working days.