The critical shortage of hormone replacement therapy will continue into the summer, forcing women onto the black market

A CRITICAL shortage of hormone replacement therapy is expected to last into the summer – and thousands are on the brink of extinction.

Activists say the crisis is already forcing many women onto the black market.

1

They warn that some even contemplate suicide.

An analysis by the British Menopause Society shows that several key products are patchy or unavailable – some as early as June at the earliest.

And they fear the shortage of the popular rub-down treatment, estrogel, will continue for months.

Ministers are now considering rationing to address HRT shortages.

The drugs treat menopausal symptoms like brain fog, decreased sex drive, and hot flashes.

It is estimated that over a million women in the UK are taking HRT, which also benefits bone health.

Experts said greater awareness due to campaigns – including The Sun’s Fabulous Menopause Matters and another by TV’s Davina McCall – has doubled demand in recent years.

dr Paula Briggs, Chair-elect of the British Menopause Society, urged women not to panic about shortages.

She said they should speak to their GP about switching to a short-term alternative rather than risking the black market.

dr Briggs added, “I think people need to be able to prepare if something isn’t going to be there, so we made a list of alternative preparations.”