Menopause care in Spain

Key rules

• Prescription: HRT needs a doctor's prescription in Spain.
• Public route: Public care starts with your GP or midwife, who can refer you to a gynecologist.
• Private route: You can book a private gynecologist directly, typically for 60 to 120 euros per consultation.
• Menopause units: Specific menopause units exist only in some hospitals and regions.

Where to start

In the public system, start with your GP (médico de familia) or a midwife (matrona). They assess your symptoms and, if needed, refer you to a gynecologist. In the private system, you can book a gynecologist directly, with no referral.

Public care

Some hospitals have specific menopause units. They are limited and not available in every region, so ask your GP whether one exists near you and whether you can be referred. Your GP can also order tests or send you to a specialist.

Private care

A private consultation typically costs 60 to 120 euros. Tests are extra, for example bone density scans, blood tests and mammography. If you have private health insurance, it may cover consultations, but this varies by policy. Ask your insurer before you book.

Hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (terapia hormonal) needs a prescription from a doctor. You cannot buy it over the counter.

Many products are partly funded by the public system. These include oestrogen patches, gels and tablets, and progesterone. At the pharmacy you pay a co-payment: usually 40% of the price if you are an active worker under the general scheme, and 10% (with a monthly cap) if you are a pensioner. Some products are not funded, so you pay the full price for those. Ask your doctor which option is funded.

Fewer women in Spain use HRT than in many European countries, so some doctors may be cautious about prescribing it. If you want to discuss it, say so clearly at your appointment. You can also ask for a second opinion or see a private gynecologist.

The questions below cover prescriptions, pharmacy costs, consultation prices and public units.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a prescription to get HRT in Spain?

Yes, hormone replacement therapy (terapia hormonal) needs a medical prescription in Spain, so you must see a doctor first. Your GP or a gynecologist can prescribe it. Pharmacies will not hand it over without one.

How much will I pay for HRT at the pharmacy?

For many HRT products you pay only a share of the price: usually 40% for active workers under the general scheme, and 10% for pensioners, with a cap. Oestrogen patches, gels, tablets and progesterone are often partly funded, but some products are not funded at all. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether your product is covered.

Can I go to a menopause unit in the public system?

Only in some places, because specific menopause units exist in a few hospitals and not in every region. You normally start with your GP or midwife, who can refer you to a gynecologist or a unit if one is available near you.